
‘We’re just doing our best’ – cultural backlash hits Auckland kava business
By Coco Lance, RNZ Pacific digital journalist A new Auckland-based kava business has found itself at the heart of a cultural debate, with critics raising concerns about appropriation, authenticity, and the future of kava as a deeply rooted Pacific tradition. Vibes Kava, co-founded by Charles Byram and Derek Hillen, operates out of New Leaf Kombucha ... <a title="‘We’re just doing our best’ – cultural backlash hits Auckland kava business" class="read-more" href="https://eveningreport.nz/2025/05/12/were-just-doing-our-best-cultural-backlash-hits-auckland-kava-business/" aria-label="Read more about ‘We’re just doing our best’ – cultural backlash hits Auckland kava business">Read more</a>