Hemprino began when Paul Ensor, Harriet Bell, and co-founder Siobhan O’Malley met during the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme in 2018. The idea sparked when Siobhan asked, what would happen if we blended hemp with merino? Bringing that vision to life took three years of research with Italian wool spinners before moving production home to New Zealand. The result is the only ZQ merino and hemp knitwear of its kind, combining nature, craftsmanship, and innovation.

Creating Hemprino meant building a transparent and sustainable supply chain from the ground up. Our ZQ-certified merino wool is grown on our family farm, Glenaan Station, in the Southern Alps of New Zealand’s South Island and processed through The New Zealand Merino Company to ensure traceability and responsible farming. We work with local partners who spin, knit, and craft each garment in New Zealand, maintaining quality, supporting local industry, and keeping our connection to the land strong.

Hemprino was created to tell a story that connects people to the land through natural, consciously made clothing. From the start, our focus has been on quality, authenticity, and purpose rather than trends. Every element, from fibre to packaging, reflects our belief that great knitwear should be grown, not made. By sharing the story of our farm, our people, and our process, we’ve built a brand grounded in trust and transparency. Hemprino is more than clothing; it represents a slower, more connected way of living.

For over 100 years, our family has cared for this land, passing down knowledge, respect, and responsibility through the generations. Each season has taught us that the choices we make today shape the world our children will inherit. Hemprino is the next chapter in that journey, created to honour our past while protecting the future. Every garment is made with care for the land, the people who grow and make it, and the next generation who will continue the story.

Director, Manufacturing and Supply Chain

Paul brings a lifetime of hands-on farming experience to Hemprino, overseeing the journey from paddock to product. His deep knowledge of merino wool and commitment to environmentally responsible farming ensure every garment begins with quality at its core.

Paul’s favourite style: Quarter-Zip

Director, Sales and Marketing

Harriet leads the brand and customer experience at Hemprino, blending a creative eye with strategic direction. With a background in sales and marketing and a passion for sharing New Zealand's farming story, she focuses on connecting customers to the people and values behind every piece.

Harriet’s favourite style: Conscious Crew

Contact us - hello@hemprino.co.nz