Elizabeth Barbalich

I was searching for natural skincare that offered the same benefits as prestige brands – but using pure New Zealand ingredients that were independently and scientifically validated. That personal quest turned into a trailblazing scientific green beauty brand which has won global fans and award for combining nutrient-rich New Zealand bioactive ingredients with science and innovation to produce high-tech, premium formulations.

Science has always been a big part of my life. Before embarking on an MBA, I studied for a biology degree; after graduating, I was fortunate to win a highly competitive role with a US-based international surgical corporation which pioneered technology for laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery. Having trained in New York, I became the sole representative for New Zealand and Australia, training surgeons and registrars to use the specialised equipment. My eight-year stint with the company was transformative, teaching me valuable lessons that I brought to Antipodes: innovation, creativity, robust scientific validation – and a belief that business can be a force for good.

My introduction to a natural lifestyle came as I was raising my three young children. Strongly encouraged by my family who were on their own personal quest for improved health and wellbeing, I discovered raw juices, supplements, and natural ingredients, and started making the switch to a plant-based way of life. At the same time, I was scouring the world’s skincare for a hydrating product that could alleviate my dry skin – but couldn’t find any green beauty products that performed as well, or felt hydrating enough, as the conventional brands I was using. I listened to my body, the way this nutrient-rich lifestyle made me feel healthy and energised. I wanted to capture that feeling in skincare. And that’s how Antipodes was born.

Working alongside surgeons for years, I learned there’s no room for error, which is why I’m rigorous in the preparation of every Antipodes green beauty product – and why they can take up to 18 months of research and development to perfect. I’m not willing to compromise on quality. I am committed to delivering the highest performance natural skincare we possibly can.

I wanted to prove to customers that they could rely on our scientists’ breakthrough research to produce eco-minded green beauty that was kinder to the planet, but was also results-driven and raised the bar when it came to improving the appearance and health of skin. Devotees can rely on our scientists’ clinical findings and trust that Antipodes products do help to improve your skin’s appearance. We’re trailblazing a new niche in green beauty globally.

By combining my twin loves of science and nature, I’m proud to have created a beautiful, cutting-edge brand that’s not only good for your skin and the planet but also gets results. We choose to use clean New Zealand ingredients, we partner with suppliers who align with our values, and we’ve retained manufacturing in New Zealand.

Now, we’re taking that to the next level and paving a new path in sustainable green beauty – with a goal to achieve 100% plastic-free, kerbside recyclable packaging, and ingredients that meet strict traceability criteria. I want to show my children you can build a life by sticking to your values and beliefs.

Living plant walls; light-filled open spaces; and sumptuous furnishings: Antipodes HQ provides daily inspiration for our green beauty formulations. Formerly a Nestlé factory and later an iconic music venue, the four-storeyed art deco building was restored to its former classical glory in 2019 by Wellington’s Architecture Workshop, under the guidance of Elizabeth and husband Zoran – an experienced property developer with a degree in economics and a nose for good investments.

Zoran applied his talents to what was, at the time, a derelict space. During the four-year project, which included demolition and reconstruction, Zoran advocated for a building that was incredibly safe (a must in earthquake-prone Wellington), was fitted out to the highest-possible standards, and provided a calm, green, and grounding space for staff and visitors alike.

The goal was to create a modern oasis. Flooded with light, the building utilises natural materials such as marble, wood, and concrete, alongside brass window frames, chandeliers, glass floors, and indoor plant walls. Many materials, such as custom wallpaper and fleur-de-lis floor tiles, were sourced by Elizabeth and Zoran from Indonesia, while the library, bar, and custom-built break-out spaces provide ample space to think, work, and play.

The result of Zoran’s expertise: a home away from home – a stylish and modern ode to art deco that, in addition to being strengthened to 130% of the National Building Standard, was awarded two New Zealand Architecture Awards in the Heritage and Commercial categories; plus a nomination in the Workplace category.