2025 Chair’s annual report

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Kia ora koutou,

It is my privilege to present the annual report for Soil & Health for the year ending 31 March 2025. This year has presented significant opportunities and challenges as we continue our critical advocacy for organic and regenerative agriculture in Aotearoa.

Membership and Engagement
As of 31 March 2025, Soil & Health has 810 paying members and 16 life members, a large decrease from the previous year’s membership of 1,695. Membership retention and growth continue to be priorities, and we strongly encourage members to actively support and participate in our ongoing efforts. The digital newsletter, The Good Dirt, continues to serve as an important communication tool, keeping members informed and connected.

Organisational Changes and Advocacy
The past year has been marked by active and strategic advocacy in several key areas:

  • Gene Technology Bill Submission: Our most substantive and collaborative effort this year has been our comprehensive submission opposing the Gene Technology Bill, firmly rejecting the release of genetically engineered organisms into New Zealand’s outdoor environment. This submission was a collaborative effort involving National Councillors, staff, and dedicated member volunteers, underlining the importance of preserving organic integrity and ecological health.
  • Glyphosate Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) Submission: Our submission opposed proposed increases to glyphosate MRLs in staple food crops. While the drafting process was primarily managed internally, valuable input and support from members and partner organisations strengthened our position. This advocacy underscores our commitment to protecting public health and consumer trust in organics.
  • Chlorpyrifos Submission: Soil & Health made a detailed submission concerning the environmental and health risks of chlorpyrifos, advocating for stringent regulations and promoting safer, organic-compatible alternatives.

National Organic Standard Development and Sector Advocacy
Soil & Health remains actively engaged with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) in the development of the National Organic Standard under the Organic Products and Production Act 2023. Our ongoing participation in MPI’s Organic Sector Advisory Council (OSAC), coupled with detailed submissions and direct consultations, underscores our vital role in shaping fair and practical organic standards and regulations.

BioGro Developments

This year has seen significant developments at BioGro, one of Soil & Health’s most important partners in supporting New Zealand’s organic sector. Ashley Smout, has been appointed as interim General Manager. His appointment brings crucial leadership during a pivotal period as BioGro undergoes important structural and operational changes. BioGro sees opportunities to expand beyond certification to offer a broader range of support that better meets the evolving needs of the organic community in Aotearoa.

Ashley’s appointment is for six months—during which time he will oversee essential structural and financial reorganisations. This groundwork is critical to stabilise BioGro’s operations and prepare it for future growth. Following this transitional period, a long-term leader will be hired to replace Ashley. That person will inherit a solid, reorganised foundation, enabling them to focus fully on expanding BioGro’s services and growing the business quickly and effectively.

Ashley’s deep understanding of business operations, combined with his strong financial and governance expertise, make him well placed to guide the organisation through this transition.

These developments mark a critical step in strengthening the organic sector’s infrastructure in New Zealand. BioGro is well positioned to expand its role in supporting organic producers, not only through certification but could also work with Soil & Health more on advocacy, education, and potentially new extension services designed to foster sector growth.

Digital Strategy and Communications
Following the conclusion of Organic NZ’s print run last year, our digital strategy has been strengthened significantly. Webinars, newsletters, and increased social media engagement have ensured members remain informed and connected. This digital pivot has proved essential in maintaining community coherence and advocacy momentum.

Sector Collaboration and Partnerships
Our relationships with key partners such as Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ), Te Waka Kai Ora, and the Biodynamic Association continue to flourish. These collaborations have been instrumental in organising successful events like Organic Week and advancing collective sector goals.

Financial Overview and Hazel Berryman’s Bequest
Soil & Health remains financially stable through careful stewardship of resources and ongoing member support. We particularly recognise Hazel Berryman’s generous bequest of $10,000, a significant contribution that will directly support our operational strength and advocacy efforts.

National Council and Governance
The current National Council has operated with a reduced number of members (five compared to the usual seven), highlighting the urgent need for increased volunteer engagement. Active participation from more members is essential to our sustained governance and advocacy. While nominations have closed for this year, expressions of interest are always welcome, ensuring a robust governance structure for the future.

Acknowledgments
I extend my heartfelt thanks to Liz Fenwick, whose administrative support over the past two years has been invaluable, especially during challenging transitions. Philippa Jamieson’s exceptional voluntary contribution, particularly managing The Good Dirt, has significantly strengthened our communication channels. Special thanks also go to David McNeill for his diligent financial management and strategic guidance, and to all National Councillors for their commitment and perseverance.

Strategic Outlook and Future Goals

Our immediate strategic focus is on rebuilding Soil & Health’s organisational capacity and infrastructure to better serve our members and strengthen our role as a leading advocate for soil health and organic agriculture in Aotearoa. After a period of limited volunteer engagement and a smaller National Council, it is essential to reinforce our core team with a blend of committed volunteers and skilled professional staff. Establishing a sustainable operational model that balances financial resilience with inclusivity will enable us to support members more effectively and broaden our impact on sector advocacy and education.

One of our key ambitions is to develop a dedicated organic agriculture extension service tailored to the unique needs of New Zealand’s producers and consumers. Such a service would deliver practical production-focused advice, science-based support for soil health management, as well as educational events and materials for organic producers and the wider organic community. This initiative aligns closely with Soil & Health’s mission to promote healthy soils as the foundation for healthy food systems and resilient ecosystems. Achieving this will require strategic partnerships, targeted funding, and leveraging the knowledge and experience within our membership.

While maintaining our independence, Soil & Health recognises the importance of strategic collaboration with like-minded organisations within the organic sector. BioGro, as an asset under Soil & Health’s umbrella, plays a key role in certification and sector development, and we will continue to work closely with their board and leadership—ensuring alignment. Our sector partnerships also include Te Waka Kai Ora, Biodynamic Association, OANZ and other aligned groups, strengthening our collective voice in national policy discussions such as the implementation of the National Organic Standard and regulatory frameworks impacting organic producers.

Our advocacy priorities remain firmly rooted in protecting soil health and the organic integrity of our food system. We will continue to oppose the release of genetically engineered organisms into the environment, push for rigorous synthetic pesticide regulation—including efforts surrounding glyphosate and chlorpyrifos—and advocate for policies that uphold the precautionary principle. These efforts are supported by scientific evidence and the values shared by our members and the wider community.

The success of these goals depends on the ongoing support and active involvement of Soil & Health’s members and stakeholders. I thank you all for your dedication and contributions. Together, we can rebuild and strengthen Soil & Health’s capacity to be an influential champion for organic regenerative agriculture and thriving soils across Aotearoa.

Ngā manaakitanga,
Charles Hyland
Chair, Soil & Health Association of New Zealand