Organic Bill a long time in the making
The Organic Products and Production Bill represents a big opportunity for New Zealand, from organic exporters to discerning consumers, says Tiffany Tompkins.
“Growth in the organic sector is better growth for Aotearoa’s environment, the New Zealand economy and for New Zealanders,” says OANZ chief executive Viv Williams.
She says organics provide an established international market and brand.
“When combined with the energy and vitality coming from the regenerative agriculture movement, organics can make a strong contribution to the future of farming as described in the Government’s Fit for a Better World roadmap.”
Williams says OANZ’s strategy focuses on extension services to support more growers to meet organic standards, alongside collaboration with regenerative growers and researchers to deliver the best of both worlds.
"Active support for indigenous food and growing knowledge, through the Hua Parakore system of Māori organic certification, is also key to New Zealand's organic food story. Hua Parakore is an authentic New Zealand relationship with food and food production that connects consumers with the land in a way that's unique to New Zealand.”
The project was undertaken with funding assistance from the Ministry for Primary Industries’ (MPI) Sustainable Food and Futures fund.
“New Zealand agriculture has an excellent reputation globally for its natural environment, and for food that is safe, tasty, nutritious, ethical and high quality,” says Steve Penno, MPI’s director of investment programmes.
“This strategy provides valuable guidance for the organics sector on how it can tell its story internationally, how to address current challenges and tap into opportunities, and pave the way forward to grow the sector.”
