A Cozy Conversation with Rika from R Gallery Soap

I first met Rika, the maker behind R Gallery Soap, at Smales Farm Market and immediately fell in love with how beautiful her products were.

Each feels like a little work of art — which makes even more sense once you hear the story behind them.

For September’s Candle Club cosy gift, I wanted to include something calming, useful and made with real care. Rika’s Coco Lavender soap felt like the perfect fit.

I asked Rika how she started making soap, what inspires her and what she hopes people feel when they use her products. Here are her answers.

Q: How did R Gallery Soap begin?

A: I started making soap after developing severe eczema on my neck. I began looking more closely at the products I was using, including my body wash, shampoo and skincare, and eventually switched to handmade soap.

My husband happened to know how to make soap, so we made our first batch together. I really enjoyed the process and soon started making soap regularly. Before I knew it, I had more soap than I could use, which led me to start selling at local markets.

Q: What draws you to botanicals, lavender and infused oils?

A: Because of my own skin concerns, I became interested in herbalism and the use of plants for wellbeing. While studying herbs, I discovered infused oils and loved the idea of capturing the qualities of plants in the oils I use to make soap.

With each soap, I consider which ingredients may be gentle and suitable for sensitive or easily irritated skin. I also love using seasonal plants and ingredients found in New Zealand.

I first research the plant and how it can be used in soap, then develop a theme around the type of skin it may suit. Finally, I choose essential oils that complement and strengthen that theme.

The idea's Coco Lavender actually came from a lavender bavarois I once served at an Italian restaurant in New Zealand. I remember thinking how beautifully lavender and milk worked together.

That inspired me to use coconut milk in the soap, creating a creamy lather and a soft, moisturising feel on the skin.

Q: What do you hope someone feels when they use one of your products?

A: I believe a bath or shower is not only about getting clean. It can also be a space to unwind and let go of the day's tiredness.

I hope R gallery soap can be part of that moment — helping people slow down, relax, and enjoy a little time for themselves.

I’m so happy to have one of Rika’s creations inside this month’s box.

To see more of her work, follow R Gallery Soap on Instagram, visit her at a local Auckland market or explore her website.

To learn more about our September collection, click here.