Apothecary opens new store
For Hastings apothecary Bonita Marshall, it’s all about making something out of nature.
Bonita opened The Apothecary in Heretaunga St East a couple of years ago, but due to family circumstances had to shut up shop. This week, however, her doors are once again open — just not the same doors.
Bonita has made a fresh start with herbAlchemist, right across the street and sitting in the front of second-hand store Second Time Around.
“A lot of people were asking me when I was going to reopen.”
Bonita says her store is mainly about alchemy — putting things together.
“Because I’m a herbalist, I’m using herbal products.”
HerbAlchemist will be stocking a lot more, with nearly 1000 different essential oils, herbal remedies, teas and other organic products for both us and our four-legged friends, including quite a a few vegan products, Bonita says.
She has chosen her products carefully, travelling around markets all over the country to make her purchases.
“I’ll be selling products I feel are different and made with love — and affordable.”
This way Bonita will be able to assemble unique gift baskets — “whether it’s for Grandma, Dad, babies or the dog”.
Botanical perfumes made from essential oils sourced from overseas and made in New Zealand will sit alongside lip balms, deodorants, toothpaste, skin care products and those for your pet — including remedies for fleas, incontinence or sore paws.
Bonita will also supply naturopathic first aid kits and will still be offering individual, bach flower and herbal remedies.
“A lot of people used to come in and want a lot of little things so I’ve tried to do lots of interesting things and will still have space to do my clinic.”
Bonita has another naturopath joining her once a fortnight, adding clothes and jewellery to the mix.
“It’s really exciting — I can’t wait to get back into it and meet my old and new customers,” she said.
“They are the ones who make this a passion, not just a job.”
■ HerbAlchemist, Albert Square, Heretaunga St East, Hastings, opening November 12.