Why AgriSea NZ | Seaweed Biostimulants for Farming

We partner with farmers and growers to strengthen growth and productivity through natural, science-backed solutions. Our mission is simple: to support resilient farming systems that perform today and protect tomorrow. Using sustainably harvested New Zealand brown kelp and advanced processing methods, we can help you improve performance while also caring for the environment.

Across dairying, drystock, horticulture, equine, apiculture and beyond, AgriSea provides integrated nutritional support. Our approach combines practical on-farm experience, mātauranga Māori and robust scientific research to unlock the full value of seaweed-based inputs. The result is targeted, effective products that build healthier soils, stronger livestock and more productive growing environments.

Locally Sourced and Manufactured

AgriSea products are made entirely in New Zealand, using seaweed harvested from our clear coastal waters and processed at our Paeroa facility. This ensures we maintain quality control and full traceability while supporting our regional communities and industry.

Sustainably Collected

AgriSea is fully committed to sustainable harvesting practices that protect marine ecosystems, maintain biodiversity, and ensure the long-term health of seaweed populations around Aotearoa for future generations.

Evidence-Based Solutions

We partner with leading research organisations to ensure every AgriSea product is backed by rigorous scientific research and independent testing. We also continually run on-farm trials to test real-world effectiveness and gather measurable data you can trust.

Proven Benefits

AgriSea products deliver quantifiable results across diverse farming and horticulture systems. From stronger animal performance to deeper root growth, enhanced soil vitality and improved crop or honey yield, our seaweed-based nutrition supports productivity at every level.

AgriSea for Animals

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AgriSea for Soil

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AgriSea for Pasture

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AgriSea for Plants and Corps

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Our Process

Seaweed plays a vital role in our oceans, supporting biodiversity, cycling nutrients and providing habitat and food for countless marine species. On land, its bioactive compounds are a powerhouse ingredient – naturally rich in minerals, trace elements, vitamins, amino acids and long-chain compounds that enhance soil, plant and animal health.

1

Sustainable Harvesting

Along the remote beaches of New Zealand's North Island, powerful storms periodically cast up native brown kelp (Ecklonia radiata). This renewable resource is carefully harvested by AgriSea's coastal contractors who carefully collect it at the peak of its nutrient-rich potential.

The seaweed is carefully cleaned, hung to dry, and transported to our manufacturing facility in Paeroa. It's then weighed, graded and analysed for its specific nutrient profile to determine the blend, which AgriSea produces for.

2

Batch Brewing Process

Next, the kelp is milled to gently break down the cell walls, allowing enzymes to release valuable bioactive compounds. For certain products, additional ingredients are added to enhance this process, optimising nutrient availability.

Unlike other biostimulant producers, AgriSea does not use heat or chemicals which can destroy delicate compounds. Instead, we rely on our proprietary cold-brew fermentation process. Seaweed, water and specially selected ingredients are combined in large fermentation pods or drums – some batches are hand-stirred and monitored daily, while others are left to slowly brew for several months.

3

Quality Testing

Throughout this time, pH levels are carefully monitored and adjusted to optimise performance – signaling when the brew enhances plant uptake, while alkaline solutions support beneficial soil microbial activity. Each drum is closely managed to ensure the final product attains its full spectrum of minerals, vitamins, amino acids and bioactives that make AgriSea so uniquely effective.

With nearly a thousand barrels brewing simultaneously, this meticulous, slow-brew approach ensures that every product delivers maximum results for you, our customer.

4

Distribution and Support

AgriSea products deliver quantifiable results across diverse farming and horticulture systems. From stronger animal performance to deeper root growth, enhanced soil vitality and improved crop or honey yield, our seaweed-based nutrition supports productivity at every level.

Research and Innovation

Pushing the boundaries of science to explore the untapped potential of seaweed

Pioneering Seaweed Science for a Sustainable Future

Seaweed is vital to our oceans – providing oxygen, habitat, food and nutrients that sustain marine life – but it's just as powerful on land.

AgriSea has long focused on using seaweed to support agriculture and horticulture, but its potential reaches far beyond these industries, from high-value functional foods and medicines to advanced materials and environmental solutions for our communities.

By working closely with universities, research institutes and scientists around the world, we are exploring new ways to unlock seaweed's unique bioactive compounds, sequester unwanted nutrients, and use waste streams to create a bio-circular economy.

Combining cutting-edge science with decades of practical experience, AgriSea is pioneering innovative solutions that demonstrate the versatility and power of seaweed, keeping us at the forefront of global marine bioactive research.

Nanocellulose – Turning Seaweed Waste into High-Value Innovation

AgriSea, in partnership with Scion, is pioneering the creation of nanocellulose, a groundbreaking hydrogel derived from the waste stream of our seaweed biostimulant process. This innovative material transforms our spent seaweed into a high-value, sustainable resource with potential applications across biomedical engineering, wound care, cosmetics, drug delivery, electronics and more.

Nanocellulose offers a green alternative to petroleum-based products and is extracted through a low-chemical process that preserves unique bioactive properties. The material's production helps AgriSea to close the loop on waste, creating a true bio-circular business.

In 2025, we opened a dedicated nanocellulose facility at our headquarters in Paeroa, producing bleached and unbleached cellulose microsheets. We were also recognised at the 2021 NZ Science Awards, winning a Partnership Award with Scion for developing our Nano-Sea product. This collaboration exemplifies AgriSea's commitment to sustainable innovation and unlocking the remarkable potential of New Zealand seaweed.

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Bioremediation Pilot Project – Waihou River

Many of New Zealand's waterways are heavily impacted by nitrogen and phosphorus runoff from farms, severely affecting water quality and aquatic ecosystems. AgriSea was proud to be part of a pioneering pilot project testing whether seaweed could help solve this problem.

In partnership with the University of Waikato, land-based tanks were established to treat water from the polluted Waihou River using native Ulva australis (sea lettuce). The trial demonstrated remarkable results, with the seaweed removing up to 90% of nitrogen from the river water, as well as significant phosphorus and heavy metals, while producing valuable biomass that AgriSea can potentially use to make commercial products. This innovative project highlights the potential of seaweed for water remediation and sustainable bioproduct development in future.

Rere Ki Uta, Rere Ki Tai – From Sea to Soil to Society

AgriSea was proud to host the Rere Ki Uta, Rere Ki Tai farming research project, partnering with 10 Waikato and Bay of Plenty farms to explore regenerative practices that honour Papatūānuku (Mother Earth) and enhance the mana and mauri of soil. The project brought together farmers, tāngata whenua, scientists, rural advisors, and technical experts to trial innovative land-use systems, including AgriSea's seaweed-based biostimulants, while monitoring soil, animal, ecological, cultural, social and economic outcomes. Building on six years of pilot research at AgriSea, it offered insights into sustainable, culturally connected farming.

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Sea to Soil Resilience Network

AgriSea is proud to partner with the Sea to Soil Resilience Network, a US based initiative scaling the use of farmed kelp as a soil biostimulant across American farmland. Backed by growing scientific evidence, this partnership aims to reduce synthetic fertiliser use, improve soil health, increase crop resilience under climate stress, and build healthier soils while lowering input costs and storing carbon. The network connects kelp farmers, scientists and agricultural communities to coordinate field trials, share knowledge and grow reliable supply chains for high quality kelp inputs.

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Research Partnerships

AgriSea collaborates with leading universities, research institutions, and industry partners to advance the science of seaweed-based agricultural solutions. These partnerships enable us to leverage cutting-edge technology, access specialized expertise, and contribute to the broader knowledge base of sustainable agriculture.

Our commitment to collaboration and knowledge-sharing drives innovation and ensures that our products are grounded in the latest scientific understanding. Together with our partners, we are shaping the future of regenerative agriculture.

Interested in Collaborating?

We welcome opportunities to collaborate with researchers, universities, and industry partners who share our passion for sustainable agricultural innovation. Whether you're conducting research, developing new applications, or seeking to trial our products, we'd love to hear from you.

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