Do it like an Islander

How to drink kava, island style, as well as a few essential Q & A's so you'll get the most out of your kava experience.

In the comfort of your own home - or mate's house - you're unlikely to offend a chief or the locals, but if you want to do kava true island style, then here's a few easy rules. Kava is best taken on an empty stomach - save the feed till after.

Preparing the kava

Traditionally kava was prepared by chewing the root into a soft, pulpy mass, spitting it into a bowl (called the tanoa), and then mixing it with water - a job usually saved for young virgins. Good for you, our kava is pounded by hand into a powder.

For 100g kava-in-a-bag

Step 1: Add water
Fill a 3L bowl with lukewarm water.
Step 2: Wring it out
Submerge the kava mixing bag in the water.
Squeeze the bag, massaging the kava goodness out of it into the water - this takes a good five minutes.
When the water starts to resemble a murky puddle, you're on the right track.

For bulk kava

Step 1: Add water

• For every 100g of kava (about 5 heaped tablespoons), you need 3L of lukewarm water. If you want it stronger, just add less water.
• Put the kava into a mixing bag (holding the top of the bag closed) and pour water over the bag.

Step 2: Wring it out

• Submerge the kava in mixing bag in the water.
• Squeeze the bag, massaging the kava goodness out of it into the water - this takes a good five minutes. Make sure none of the kava root escapes into the water.
• When the water starts to resemble a murky puddle, you're on the right track.
• Once you've finished, clean out the bag and use it again.

Drinking the kava (the ceremony)

• One person serves the kava in a bilo - coconut shell cup.
• In a traditional ceremony, the chief will drink his kava first, and then the bilo will be dipped into and refilled from the tanoa (bowl) eventually making its way around the circle.
• The most important people drink first - so choose your mates carefully!
• Clap once with cupped hands and say "Bula" to acknowledge the serving.
• Receive the kava with both hands.
• Drink all in one go – like a tequila shot. It can taste earthy and bitter so have something sweet or spicy waiting to eat.
• Hand the shell back to the host and clap cupped hands three times, saying "Bula" again.
• Your lips will probably go numb.
• Once you've mastered the basics, you can announce "Maca!" – that's "Mar-THAR" not "Macca!" – which means "the cup is empty!"

Kava Questions and Answers

This is us filling in the gaps

Q: Is kava legal in New Zealand?
A: Yes. Kava is perfectly legal for sale and use in New Zealand.

Q: Is kava alcoholic?
A: Nope. It's non-alcoholic. It is a mild analgesic, diuretic and stress reliever. Drinking it can make your tongue feel tingly and head go a bit fuzzy – and it's a great social lubricant. There's no hangover like after a big night out, though you may feel a bit sleepy. And, it doesn't cause aggression, which makes for a much better time.

Q: What does kava do? 
A: A number of things. It relaxes muscles, calms nerves and reduces inhibitions. It can help focus concentration and creates a feeling of relaxation and contentment.

Q: Is kava addictive?
A: It is not known to be addictive and has been used safely for thousands of years.

Q: How old do I have to be to take kava?
A: We don't sell our products to people under 18.

Q: How much kava can I drink?
A: Depending on how much you've had in the past, you will know your limit. However, if it's your first time, we recommend taking it easy and building up tolerance gradually.

Q: Is it safe to drive after drinking kava?
A: We recommend saving kava for a big night in, rather than a night out - and we don't advise driving while under the influence. Kava should be drunk on an empty stomach and should not be mixed with alcohol.

Q: Is kava safe to take while pregnant?
A: Our mothers drank it while they were pregnant, but things change. While there is no known evidence to say kava is unsafe for use during pregnancy, it's up to the user. If you want to use it while pregnant, we advise talking to your lead maternity carer first.