Peter Hanson, founder of Aotea Holdings, served as a colonel in the New Zealand Army in the 1970s. While commuting to work at a military camp in Papakura, a suburb of Auckland, Peter became interested in a small gift shop he often saw on his way there. In 1979, the gift shop was put up for sale, and Peter and his wife Joan took over, transforming it into a store selling high-quality New Zealand products and catering to international tourists . It was a small store with only five employees, but Peter had big ambitions.

Aotea's first store in Auckland, New Zealand

For the first few years, Peter and Joan sold mainly sheepskin and pounamu (greenstone in Maori) to tourists travelling between Auckland and Rotorua. Gradually, the business grew and they expanded their product range to meet their customers' needs, including health and beauty products and Manuka honey. Aotea has since expanded its stores to Auckland Central, Queenstown, Rotorua, Christchurch, Tekapo and Dunedin, stocking a wide range of high-quality New Zealand products.

Richard Hanson (left), Peter Hanson (center), Donald Hanson (right )

In the 2010s, Peter and Joan's sons, Richard and Donald, joined the family business. To further expand the business, brands such as Kapeka and Avoca were developed to showcase uniquely New Zealand products. The brand development team works daily to develop and manufacture products to meet the growing global demand for New Zealand products.

Hanson family - {eter and Joan

Joan Hanson and Peter Hanson

Peter and Joan have made significant contributions to various charities and social causes over the years. Like many Kiwis (New Zealanders), the Hansons work hard but also strive to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle, with hobbies including travelling, skiing, snowboarding, gardening and mountain biking.

Peter Hanson - Founder of Aotea Gifts New Zealand

Peter Hanson - Founder of Aotea Holdings

Peter always valued his family, which was evident in the sons he and Joan raised. Following his death in 2019, his sons continue to carry on his legacy. Peter was kind and compassionate to everyone he met.

Aotea's mission is to bring the best of New Zealand to the world. Aotea has been in business for over 45 years and has served more than 7 million customers in the past 45 years.