Oat milk is a plant-based beverage made by soaking and blending oats with water, then straining the mixture to create a smooth, creamy liquid. Naturally free from dairy, soy, and nuts, oat milk is celebrated for its mild flavor, silky texture, and versatility in everything from coffee to cooking. Its ability to steam and foam has made it a favorite among baristas and home users alike. As New Zealand’s first homegrown oat milk brand, Otis was established in 2017 by rural New Zealanders Tim and Chris. The founders were motivated by a desire to offer a sustainable alternative to the country’s expanding dairy industry. Their vision centers on ethical agriculture and regenerative farming, working closely with more than 70 South Island farmers to support both rural communities and environmental restoration.
From Grassroots to Game-Changer: A Kiwi Story of Innovation and Care
From organic operations like Lilybank Station near Aoraki/Mount Cook to trailblazing regenerative farms like Royalburn and the research-led oat breeders at Plant Research NZ, Otis has cultivated an ecosystem of passionate growers, innovators, and climate-conscious partners. These collaborations ensure the brand’s oats are among the most resilient, nutritious, and flavourful in the world. Otis’s commitment doesn’t stop at the farmgate. As a Certified B Corporation, Otis is held to rigorous standards for social, environmental, and operational accountability. Through its One Percent Fund, the brand donates 1% of all sales to initiatives in environmental restoration, packaging innovation, and oat research. Otis has also taken a strong stand against single-use plastics. Instead, it uses renewable-material-based Tetra Pak cartons, while supporting circular economy solutions like save BOARD—a Hamilton-based facility that repurposes used cartons into sustainable building materials.
Regenerative Roots, Certified Integrity, and Real Impact in Every Sip
Otis’s approach extends beyond the beverage itself, championing innovation throughout the supply chain and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. The brand actively collaborates with local researchers to improve oat varieties, enhance soil health, and reduce water usage, all while maintaining transparency with consumers about sourcing and production practices. By investing in rural communities and supporting next-generation farmers, Otis is helping to future-proof New Zealand’s agricultural landscape. The company’s dedication to sustainable packaging and ongoing support for circular economy initiatives further solidifies its role as a forward-thinking leader in the plant-based industry. Each step in Otis’s process reflects a commitment to nurturing both the land and the people who depend on it, setting a new benchmark for ethical food production in Aotearoa. Their focus on people, planet, and community is more than a marketing stance—it’s baked into every part of the business. With radical transparency and real farmer stories at its heart, Otis isn’t just selling oat milk. It’s crafting a more thoughtful food system—one creamy, climate-smart carton at a time.
To know more visit:
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/otisoatmilk
Website- https://otisoatmilk.co.nz
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