What is tallow?
Our tallow is rendered from the suet — the delicate, nutrient-dense leaf fat that surrounds the kidneys of our own grass-fed cattle, raised on our land in the Coromandel Peninsula. Protected deep within the animal, this internal fat remains pure and untouched by external elements, making it the finest source for both high-temperature cooking and restorative skincare.
Tallow is rich in the same lipids naturally present in youthful, healthy skin. These beneficial fats help to fortify the skin’s barrier, preserve moisture, and support cellular structure and elasticity. Its biology mirrors our own — allowing each balm to absorb effortlessly, delivering nourishment without heaviness or residue.
Naturally abundant in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, and balanced in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, tallow offers complete, bioavailable nourishment that modern formulations often imitate but rarely achieve.
For centuries, tallow was the original skincare — revered for its ability to heal, protect, and restore. Only with the arrival of petroleum-based creams and synthetic additives did we lose touch with this ancestral wisdom.
Are the balms suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes — our balms are gentle and well-suited for sensitive or reactive skin. If your skin is irritated or broken, we recommend beginning with our essential oil–free formulations in the Soothe range to allow the skin to calm, repair, and rebuild its natural barrier before introducing any scented blends.
Does tallow smell?
Yes, tallow is beef fat in it's purest form, so there is a faint scent. However, upon application the smell dissipates quickly as it melts into the skin. If you're worried, we recommend choosing products that incorporate essential oils and honey.
What’s the shelf life of your products?
We recommend using our balms within six months of purchase to enjoy them at their freshest. After this time, the products remain safe and effective, though the subtle aroma of essential oils may gently fade.
Is your tallow ethically sourced?
Yes. Our tallow comes from the animals we raise on our family farm in the Coromandel. Our cows free-range on open green paddocks, nourished by native grasses and the fresh salty air of the South Pacific ocean.
We approach every part of the process with care, gratitude, and respect — ensuring that nothing is wasted and that each life is honoured fully. This deep connection to our land and animals allows us to create skincare that reflects integrity, purity, and harmony with nature
How should I store my balm?
Keep your balm in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, to preserve its texture and potency. In cooler months, if it feels firm, a cozy spot like the pantry or the hot water cupboard will help maintain its soft, spreadable consistency — ready for effortless application whenever you need it.
Why is my balm grainy?
Keep your balm in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, to preserve its texture and potency. In cooler months, if it feels firm, a cozy spot like the pantry or the hot water cupboard will help maintain its soft, spreadable consistency — ready for effortless application whenever you need it.
Can I store my balm in the fridge?
Yes, you can — however, refrigeration will cause the balm to harden, making it less spreadable. If stored in the fridge, allow it to come back to room temperature before use so it softens to its natural, smooth texture.
What is the process of rendering your tallow?
We don’t source our tallow from third parties — we render it ourselves, from animals we know and respect. Each cow is raised traditionally, roaming the lush green paddocks, free from hormones or antibiotics, and allowed to live as nature intended.
The tallow comes to us still warm on the day of processing. Once cooled slightly, we hand-cut and inspect every piece, carefully removing any traces of blood or connective tissue to ensure absolute purity. The fat is then rendered slowly at low temperatures over several days, preserving its full nutrient profile and golden clarity.
We never use water or salt in our renders. This ensures we prevent any oxidation and maintains the integrity of the finished balm. Afterward, our tallow undergoes a few more proprietary steps to refine its texture and neutralise its scent, leaving behind a clean, luxurious base that nourishes the skin at its most elemental level.
Do you ship internationally?
At present, we ship within New Zealand and Australia. If you’re based elsewhere and would love to experience our balms, please get in touch — we’re always happy to explore international options where possible.
What is your returns policy?
We want you to love your Queen of the Hill balms. If you are not completely satisfied, we offer a money-back guarantee for returns within two weeks of purchase, provided more than half of the balm remains in the jar.