From Seaweed to World‑First Innovation: AgriSea’s Big Day in Paeroa

AgriSea unveiled the world’s first Commercial Seaweed Nanocellulose Biorefinery in Paeroa—a launch that drew ministers, dignitaries, industry leaders, partners, and plenty of proud whānau.

The day had all the makings of a celebration, complete with a rockstar champagne‑bottle moment from Minister Chris Penk.  If you missed it, check out their 7 Sharp feature.

The multi-million-dollar biorefinery, owned by family company AgriSea, will convert seaweed left over from the bio stimulant production process into nanocellulose hydrogel that can be used for medical, agricultural, manufacturing and cosmetic purposes.

Nanocellulose is a highly versatile material with exceptional properties, making it valuable in various applications.  Most of the world’s nanocellulose is produced using chemically treated wood pulp.  Now, AgriSea and the Bioeconomy Science Institute have collaborated to create this material from seaweed.

AgriSea Chief Executive Clare Bradley says seaweed offers a surprising advantage over traditional wood-pulp sources.  “Its cellulose chains are up to four times wider and longer, giving the resulting hydrogel twice the thermal conductivity of plant-based equivalents.”

“The extraction process uses non-aggressive chemicals compared to those usually used to produce nanocellulose, making it significantly more workplace and environmentally friendly.  The finished material, an opaque gel, is stronger than steel and can absorb greater than 100 times its mass in water.”

For AgriSea, the biorefinery is the next chapter in a 30-year journey producing seaweed-based bio-stimulants for agriculture.  Until now, the fibrous residue from the company’s brewing process had limited value.  By transforming it into nanocellulose hydrogel, the company is creating revenue streams while eliminating waste.

This kaupapa didn’t just happen—it was built step by step.  Tane Bradley acknowledged Poutama’s support along the way to explore new markets at home and overseas, technical adjustments to the prototype, consultancy support, and more.  It’s a textbook example of how purposeful funding and practical guidance can accelerate Māori innovation from idea to industry.

AgriSea’s journey shows what’s possible when pakihi Māori pair bold ideas with the right support network.  The biorefinery is more than a facility—it’s a signal that sustainable, high‑value manufacturing can thrive in our regions, powered by Māori enterprise and guided by kaitiakitanga.

If your pakihi is exploring new markets, refining prototypes, or gearing up for a landmark launch, kōrero with the Poutama team. Let’s map the support—funding, technical advice, and connections—to help you build momentum and deliver impact.