The Buzz, December 24 Edition

Hello, and welcome to the Dec edition of the Buzz, your monthly dose of news from the Organic Sector.

As the new Chair of OANZ, it’s a privilege to connect with you for the first time through our December Buzz. I stepped into this role in August, following the incredible leadership of Chris Morrison. It’s been a dynamic and challenging time to join, with the Gene Technology Bill recently introduced to Parliament and crucial conversations about the future of New Zealand’s organic sector underway.

Over the past few months, OANZ has been hard at work championing robust organic standards, looking towards creating a sustainable sector body via the SFFF project, and engaging with stakeholders to ensure your voices are heard regarding the Gene Technology Bill. I was fortunate to join last week’s delegation to Wellington, where we met with MPs from the Green, National, Labour, and NZ First parties, alongside key stakeholders like HortNZ and Beef + Lamb. These discussions highlighted both the opportunities and the challenges we face in protecting Aotearoa’s unique position as a leader in sustainable, non-GE food systems.

Our GE education and advocacy campaign is gaining momentum, and thanks to your incredible support, we’ve reached nearly $40k in fundraising! This milestone has enabled us to commission an economic report, fund two delegations to Wellington, and strengthen our expert team of scientists, researchers, economists, and communicators. The Bill is now open for public submissions and OANZ will help the sector prepare submissions. Be on the lookout for a submission toolkit after the holidays.  

Beyond our advocacy efforts, OANZ has been advancing the SFFF project to explore a sustainable future for the organic sector. We’re now entering the consultation phase and will be taking this conversation on the road through nationwide workshops to present ideas next year.

Thank you to everyone who has supported our mahi through the SFFF project and the GE campaign. Your time, resources, and energy, along with funding from the sector, MPI’s Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund, and generous donors, volunteers, and experts have made our advocacy possible. Your dedication strengthens our collective voice.

As we look towards 2025, I’m energised by the possibilities ahead and grateful to be part of a community so deeply committed to creating a better food future for Aotearoa. I can’t wait to continue this journey with you.

Meri Kirihimete
Rob Simcic - Chair
Organics Aotearoa New Zealand
rob@oanz.org