September 2022 edition of The BUZZ, Organic Aotearoa's monthly newsletter

Hello and welcome to the September 2022 edition of The BUZZ, Organic Aotearoa’s monthly dose of news from the organic sector and beyond.

As we approach our AGM and Action Day event, I've spent some time reflecting on the past year. I am incredibly proud of the progress made by the OANZ board, the newly established executive team and our teams of sector volunteers. Since the launch of the Sector Strategy late last year, thousands of hours, largely voluntarily, have gone into getting us to where we are now, ready for the Action Day and delivering on the key projects outlined in the Sector Strategy. We can't wait to share this work with you, which will ultimately grow the Organic Sector in Aotearoa.

We feel very privileged to be joined by two hugely inspirational people. Action Day guest speakers include Karen Mapusua, Director of IFOAM international. Karen will be reporting on what's new internationally in organics in a post-covid world, and she will give us some insight into the potential changes to EU's GE legislation. Also joining us is the highly esteemed Dr Jessica Hutchings, kaupapa Māori research leader and Hua Parakore farmer. Jessica will be speaking about the Hua Parakore verification system. Tickets for the Action Day are selling well, and it's great to see representation from our diverse organic sector attending; if you haven't already, please register for this important event here.

OANZ'S focus over the last year has been growing our internal capacity, developing our organisational strategic plan, and ultimately getting the organisation in good shape so we can continue to drive the Sector Strategy forward. For OANZ members, we'd love you to attend our AGM on the 23rd of September, either in person or via Zoom. Your representation is essential. Register for the AGM meeting here.

I am very optimistic about the future - for OANZ and the growth of organics in Aotearoa, and I look forward to seeing some of you in person later this month; it's been too long.

Ngā mihi nui,

Chris Morrison – Chair

T: 027 548 1293

E: Chris@oanz.org