Gota: A Maori Tale Embodied in Skincare Packaging

Reviving Maori Wisdom Through Innovative Design

Embracing the rich narratives of New Zealand's indigenous Maori culture, N Z Skin Care Co., Ltd has crafted a unique skincare packaging design named Gota. The design is a tribute to the vibrant Maori heritage, aiming to infuse the wisdom and power of ancient tales into the daily skincare routine. The packaging features a trio of colors—green, red, and blue—each symbolizing an element of New Zealand's lush environment, from the MAMAKU FERN to the energy-rich red alga and the mysterious conus of the ocean.

What sets Gota apart is its deep-rooted inspiration from the Maori lore, which is thoughtfully reflected in the packaging. The design incorporates fossil figures of indigenous plants and animals, symbolizing the harmonious blend of natural ingredients and cutting-edge technology. This approach not only pays homage to the Maori respect for nature but also introduces consumers to skincare products that are both natural and effective.

The tactile experience of Gota is as remarkable as its visual appeal. Mimicking the texture of natural stone, the packaging's surface is treated with embossing and debossing techniques, adding a three-dimensional quality that invites touch. The cap, made from PP and ABS materials, is adorned with patterns of the key ingredients, further emphasizing the product's connection to nature. A multilayer spraying process ensures the packaging's durability and resistance to wear.

Technical specifications of the design are meticulously noted, with dimensions provided for different product types. The packaging's color schemes are carefully chosen to reflect the eco-friendly craftsmanship that the brand stands for. The design team, comprising Xiaokun Liu, Zhe Tu, Chen Wu, Min Lu, Lanzhu Zhong, Qianqian Luo, Yangjun Xiao, and Jie Xu, has worked collaboratively to bring this vision to life.

Functionality is at the heart of Gota's design. The intuitive cap design, printed with natural element patterns, allows consumers to quickly grasp the product's composition, enhancing trust and appeal. Serum products feature rotating telescopic droppers, offering a user-friendly experience that is both convenient and safe.

Launched in collaboration with Sephora in New Zealand, the Gota project was developed over a period starting in November 2020 and culminated in a presentation at Sephora's branded Shanghai show in November 2023. The design is underpinned by extensive research into Maori traditional medicine and the use of natural ingredients for skin repair, which are now applied in modern skincare through advanced technologies.

Overcoming the challenge of encapsulating Maori reverence for nature, the packaging design stands as a testament to the enduring life force of nature's ancient wisdom, particularly in its anti-ageing properties. Gota's commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of recyclable materials, avoiding environmentally harmful processes. This dedication to blending tradition with sustainability has earned Gota the prestigious Silver A' Packaging Design Award in 2024, a testament to its exceptional design and innovation.