Ahead of the 2026 election, OANZ asked every political party the same seven questions on organic food and farming. Our new Vote Organic Scorecard brings their answers together in one place, so you can see who's backing an organic future before you vote.

Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ) spent two days in Wellington last week meeting political parties and key stakeholders to press the case for a National Organic Policy and investment, and the message coming back to members is blunt: not one party currently has a specific policy for growing organics in New Zealand.

Hon Mike Butterick visited Hawke's Bay's leading organic businesses last week highlighting the innovation, economic contribution and community impact of NewZealand's $1.18 billion organic sector.

OANZ is looking to co-opt up to two new board directors, and we want to hear from you. The organic sector is entering an exciting period, with the Organic Products and Production Act now in force, new regulations taking shape, and a dedicated Associate Minister for Organics in place. This is a real opportunity to help shape what that means for our members and the wider sector.

Right now, three pieces of legislation are moving through Parliament simultaneously, together representing a serious threat to the organic and GE-free sectors and our wider environment and health. We have four days to encourage submissions opposing these bills, use our submission guides to take action today.

There are currently three bills moving through Parliament that, taken together, represent a significant shift in how the government regulates new organisms, agricultural chemicals, and genetic technologies. Understanding each one individually is important. But understanding how they connect is critical.

Join our team on 10 June as we outline OANZ's submission on both the HSNO and ACVM Amendment Bills, how they connect to the Gene Tech Bill, and what it could mean for organic and non-GMO producers and consumers.

Catch up on all the latest organic news from home and abroad with Organic Aotearoa's monthly newsletter, The BUZZ - May 2026 edition. Covering news, events, and so much more.

The New Zealand Government has appointed Mike Butterick MP as Associate Minister of Agriculture - Organics, a dedicated ministerial role for the organic sector and, as far as Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ) is aware, a world first. No other country currently has a minister with a dedicated organic portfolio at the national government level.

The Organic Products and Production Act 2023 brings cost recovery from mid-2026. Here's what Aotearoa New Zealand organic operators can do this quarter to be ready.