Do It Like an Islander
Relax together, no alcohol needed.
How to drink kava, island style plus a few essential Q&As to get the most out of your kava experience.
Whether you’re at home or hanging out at a mate’s place, you’re not going to offend anyone by drinking kava. And if you want to enjoy it the island way, here are a few easy tips to keep it real.
- Drink on an empty stomach save the feed for after
- Relax and take your time kava’s not a race
- Share it with mates it’s always better together
Kava Questions & Answers
This is us filling in the gaps.
Q: Is kava legal in New Zealand?
A: Yep. Kava is totally legal to buy and drink in NZ.
Q: Is kava alcoholic?
A: Nope. It’s non-alcoholic. Kava is a natural relaxant, it can make your tongue tingle and helps you feel relaxed, while still feeling clear-headed. It’s a great social drink with no hangover and no agro.
Q: What does kava do?
A: It relaxes muscles, calms nerves, reduces stress, and helps you feel focused and content.
Q: Is kava addictive?
A: It’s not known to be addictive and has been used safely for thousands of years.
Q: How old do I have to be to drink kava?
A: There is no age limit in NZ, but if you're under 18 be respectful and check with your parents first.
Q: How much kava can I drink?
A: If you’re new to it, start slow. Everyone’s tolerance is different, build up gradually.
Q: Can I drive after drinking kava?
A: We recommend saving kava for a night in. Don’t drive under the influence, and don’t mix it with alcohol.
Q: Is kava safe during pregnancy?
A: Our mums drank it, but times change. There’s no clear evidence it’s unsafe, but if you’re pregnant, talk to your lead maternity carer first.
Q: What’s the difference between true instant kava and micronised kava?
A: Our True Instant Kava is made by extracting the active kavalactones with water, then drying the liquid. The fibrous root is removed, leaving a smooth, easy-to-mix powder.
Micronised kava is just ground-up root (fiber and all) which can be harsh on the stomach.
That’s why our instant kava is smoother, cleaner, and more effective.
Preparing the Kava
For Instant Kava:
- Gather your mates kava’s better together
- Empty one sachet (2.5g) into a cup
- Add water about ½ cup per sachet
- Stir and sip less water = stronger kava
- Swirl before the last sip the good stuff settles at the bottom
For Traditional Bulk Kava:
- Add water 100g of kava to 3L of lukewarm water
- Use a mixing bag hold it closed and pour water over it
- Wring it out massage the bag in the water for 5+ minutes
- Look for the murky puddle look that’s when it’s ready
- Clean and reuse your bag no waste here
Drinking the Kava (The Ceremony)
- One person serves from the tanoa (bowl) using a bilo (coconut shell cup)
- The chief or guest of honour drinks first, followed by others in order of rank
- Clap once with cupped hands before receiving as a sign of respect
- Drink it all in one go, like a shot
- Clap three times after handing the bilo back to show appreciation and signal they are done
- Expect a numb mouth and relaxed vibes