Tea Blog

The word “Zealong” has been gaining attention in the tea world. While not yet widely available, this unique tea is becoming increasingly well known.

Zealong is produced in New Zealand—a country made up of two main islands located southeast of Australia. Yes, New Zealand has joined the growing list of tea-producing nations.

What is Zealong?

Zealong is an oolong tea made from tea leaves grown, harvested, and processed entirely in New Zealand. Its development began in 1996, when Vincent Chen introduced high-quality Taiwanese tea plants to the Waikato region on the North Island.

Beginning with just 130 carefully inspected plants, the operation expanded into a full-scale plantation covering more than 50 hectares. The goal was to produce teas comparable in quality to traditional Taiwanese oolongs—and by many accounts, that goal has been achieved.

Types of Zealong Tea

Currently, several styles of Zealong tea are produced:

• Pure: Lightly processed, unroasted leaves that produce a clean, fresh, naturally sweet flavor
• Aromatic: Lightly roasted leaves offering floral and fruity notes
• Dark: More heavily roasted leaves with a deeper, richer character and subtle roasted notes, without bitterness

I had the opportunity to try both the Pure and Dark varieties. Each displayed classic oolong characteristics and performed well across multiple infusions—sometimes up to seven or more.

Brewing Suggestions

For best results, use a small teapot—such as a Yixing teapot or similar vessel.

• Warm the teapot with hot water
• Add enough leaves to cover the bottom
• Rinse briefly with hot water and discard (this helps awaken the leaves)
• Refill with hot water and steep for about 1 minute

The initial rinse helps create more consistent infusions. After steeping, pour the tea into cups or a second vessel before serving.

Enjoying the Experience

Take a moment to appreciate the tea leaves before and after steeping—their shape, color, and aroma.

As you sip, notice how the flavor develops and lingers. Oolong teas like Zealong are meant to be experienced slowly and thoughtfully.

A Side Note on “Tea Trees”

It’s worth noting that New Zealand and Australia also have plants commonly known as “tea trees,” but these are not related to true tea (Camellia sinensis).

• New Zealand “tea tree”: Leptospermum scoparium (Manuka)
• Australian “tea tree”: Melaleuca alternifolia

These plants are better known for products like essential oils and Manuka honey, which is increasingly popular worldwide.

Final Thoughts

Zealong is an exciting addition to the global tea landscape, offering a unique take on oolong from an unexpected region.

If you come across it, it’s well worth trying.

See also:
Some Australian Grown Black Teas
Some Australian Grown Green Teas

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