Ethos Leather

29/01/2023

After three years I have, at last, regained control of my page. Apologies to those of you who messaged me over that time. I was completely unable to respond to any of your requests, which was frustrating to say the least.
However, the world moves on and so has my life. I have decided to sell my property and will be moving to the South Island to start a new chapter. I may carry on making belts in the future but for now wont be doing any leather or saddle work.
I have a few things coming up for sale, which I will post here shortly.
Regards
Donna

26/04/2020

May is the time for planting Strawberries so you can enjoy the luscious berries with cream in the coming summer.
I have bundles of healthy, bare rooted "Chandler" Strawberries for sale. The Chandler variety are well suited to growing in Northland and the parent plants fruited continuously from October through to now. These plants have been grown in no dig and spray free beds.
Bundle of 10 plants for $15.
Contactless pickup here at the workshop from Tuesday on.

23/03/2020

Just letting you all know that I will be keeping the workshop open for emergency saddlery repairs etc over the coming weeks.
However please ring or text me if you need something fixed to arrange drop off. You could also courier your item to me but only send by courier van. Do not use the red NZ Post bags as it will be redirected to my PO Box and I will not be clearing that regularly.
It goes without saying that if you have cold symptoms or have been overseas in the last 14 days then you don't need to be out and about.
Look after yourselves and those around you. Keep calm, stay positive and remember to wash your hands!!

11/03/2020

The Girls were busy in the Bottle brush today but over the Summer they collected nectar from the Kanuka flowering here in the valley. This was their first season and they have done well.
Kanuka Honey is great for helping to heal wounds - on animals as well as people - and can help clear up some skin ailments. Studies have shown it has twice the antiseptic properties of Manuka Honey. It also tastes great on toast and porridge!
This honey has been cold pressed and lightly filtered so still contains a certain amount of pollen. There are a limited number of jars available and can be purchased at the workshop or I can courier to you.
Price is $12 per jar.

18/02/2020

So, this is the result when pesky rodents have bit of a nibble on your favorite saddle seat.
Many hours along with some blood, lots of sweat (was about 35c in the workshop for the last month) and a bit of bad language and the saddle is ready to hit the farm hills again.
Hopefully the rodents have been moved on!

06/02/2020

So sad to hear of the passing of Kabo Kauri last Friday.
Kauri was one of those horses who leave a lasting impression on you, he had the patience of a Saint and taught me a lot about side saddle fitting. In fact I learnt a lot about horses from Kauri too - this boy didn't eat to live, he lived to EAT. Anything from Quiche to scones, biscuits and sausages. He got in a bit of bother with the Clergy when Hazel took him to the Animal Blessing at the McLeods Bay Church. Whilst the smaller anilmals were inside being blessed Kauri slipped his lead and managed to wedge his Clydie frame (Pooh Bear like) in the door of the church hall and helped himself to all the afternoon tea sandwiches he could reach.
Kauri was an accomplished Dressage horse and it was amazing to see him seemingly float across the arena despite his large frame and hooves the size of dinner plates. It was this stature which made him a perfect Troop Horse and he represented the NZMR horses in ANZAC parades and displays. He was unofficial ambassador for the Whangarei Museum live days where he meeted and greeted visitors from all over. Although his dislike for sticks and poles meant the Medieval Days were not on his list of favorites.
In his retirement Kauri worked for Horses 4 Healing, helping mental health clients work their way back to well being.
Kauri touched many people in many ways in his 30 years on this earth.
Rest in peace Matey - you truly deserve it.

27/10/2019

Yikes only two months to Christmas! Just landed these awesome fish hook buckles to lure the sea dogs out there. Made from solid brass with a matte nickel finish they are the perfect gift for the fisherman "who has everything". Available separately or on a custom made belt.

27/10/2019

Beautifully turned out ponies and riders at the Rangiora Show yesterday. The nearest and furtherest ponies from the camera are both being ridden in Pilches made by ETHOS Leather.
Thank you to Nikki Parker for the photo.

24/09/2019

No, I'm not taking up embroidery! These are mast hoops for an 1800's vintage yacht which is being restored. They slide up and down the mast, moving the sails and are covered with leather to protect the mast from damage. It takes five metres of thread to hand stitch each hoop - and there are ten of them!

11/09/2019

There are some incredibly talented people in Northland, This 70mm long, solid silver skull was bought into the workshop today by its maker looking for Bolo cord. He will be making these for sale in silver and patina bronze.
Would make a stunning gift for that special person.

15/08/2019

Just finished this western breastplate today for a customer.

19/12/2018

19/12/2018

Two custom knife sheaths finished and ready for happy recipients on Christmas morning.

17/12/2018

Amazing what a bit of TLC can do. Yes, this is the same saddle - without the mushrooms and a good application of Ethos Leather's Red Horse Leather Creme.