The Soil & Health Association of New Zealand held a Special General Meeting on Saturday 4th May to gauge members’ support for a new strategic vision. The meeting was held in Wellington, with those unable to attend in person attending via Zoom.
The Financial Report presented to the SGM can be found here.
The meeting Agenda and Remits were as follows.
AGENDA
Welcome
Financial Overview and Discussion
Election of National Councillors (two positions available)
Remits
REMITS
1) That the Soil & Health Association re-register as an Incorporated Society under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022.
Proposed by National Council
Rationale: This motion is required in order for our new constitution to be registered with the Companies Office and Charities Services.
2) That the constitution be amended to include the following clause under ‘objects’: ‘To honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi’
Proposed by National Council
Rationale: This was raised at the 2023 AGM by members and National Council agrees this clause should be included.
3) That the revised constitution adopted by members at the 2023 AGM be adopted again
Proposed by National Council
Rationale: Purely procedural, in order to ensure there are no further hold-ups with this process. No further changes to the constitution are proposed with the exception of Remit #2 above.
4) That production of OrganicNZ cease until such time as it becomes financially viable.
Proposed by National Council
Rational: After extensive work to save the magazine over the last six months, and noting the current cashflow situation, there is no way production can continue.
5) That the membership fee be amended.
Proposed by National Council
Rationale: Since the membership fee was doubled last year we have seen membership rates continue to decline.
6) That an e-newsletter for members only be established
Proposed by National Council
Rationale: To help keep our members informed and up to date with our work and connected to the wider organic community.
7) That National Council be empowered to rationalise our web offerings if required
Proposed by National Council
Rationale: At present we maintain three websites: Soil & Health, OrganicNZ and Organic Week. National Council believes it needs to explore the feasibility of maintaining all of these and act accordingly once this process is completed.
https://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/seal-square-1.jpg799799editorhttps://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Soil-and-Health-Association_logoFA-web2024.jpgeditor2024-04-10 11:15:412024-07-11 10:28:03Special General Meeting – Saturday 4 May 2024, 10am to 12pm
The 2023 AGM of the Soil & Health Association was held over Zoom on Saturday October 7th.
Draft Minutes
The draft Minutes of the 2023 AGM can be found here. Members who were present at the AGM may wish to suggest amendments to the Minutes, to be discussed and approved as final at the 2024 AGM.
Agenda
The Agenda was as follows:
Welcome and Notice of General Business
Acceptance of Agenda
Attendance and Apologies
Confirmation of the Minutes of the 2022 AGM
Introduction of Voting Section
Nominees for National Council
Nominees address to members
Questions to nominees
Voting
Reports
Chair’s Report
BioGro Report
Branch Reports
Financial Report
Remit to adopt new Constitution
General Business
Nomination of Brendan Hoare for Honorary Life Membership
The following remits were agreed upon at the meeting:
That the Soil and Health Association membership adopt the Constitution document known as the Constitution of the Soil and Health Association 2022 (the Constitution).
The National Council supports the adoption of the Constitution
Members at the AGM ratified Brendan Hoare’s nomination as an Honorary Life Member of the Association, as agreed by the National Council.
The original nomination for Brendan’s life membership came from Philippa Jamieson and Marion Thomson.
https://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/cropped-SHA-1.png297299editorhttps://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Soil-and-Health-Association_logoFA-web2024.jpgeditor2024-02-14 14:54:512024-08-26 07:43:48Report of the 2023 AGM
On 5th March 2024, the Soil & Health Association of NZ held an online webinar with Jon Carapiet, to discuss consumer issues around GE. This included the right to choose, labelling, traceability, and consumers overseas – our export markets. Scroll down to read more about the webinar and to access the full recording. If you benefited from this webinar, please consider donating to Soil & Health to support our vital work, details below.
Jon is a consumer advocate, market researcher and national spokesperson for GE Free NZ (in food and environment). For almost 20 years, Jon has spoken out about the need to moderate the powerful use of gene technology to protect New Zealand’s capacity to produce and sell non-GMO food and to protect the rights of consumers at home and overseas. As an advocate for Brand New Zealand, Jon draws on his years of experience as a senior market researcher and brand communications consultant. Jon has a Bachelor’s degree from Cambridge University and a Master’s from Auckland University, and as well as working in research, he is a keen photographer, regularly exhibiting his artwork.
A copy of Jon’s PowerPoint presentation can be viewed here.
If you would like to view the other webinars in our GE series, please go to the GE Free Campaign page of our website.
Donate to support the vital work of Soil & Health
All webinars and events are free for all members of Soil and Health; otherwise we suggest a donation of $20. All funds go towards Soil & Health’s advocacy and campaign for a GE-free New Zealand, and are eligible for tax credits.
Or transfer funds to our account: BNZ, account number: 02 0108 0058415 001 With the reference: GE donation
https://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/carapiet-copy-800x500-1.jpg500800editorhttps://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Soil-and-Health-Association_logoFA-web2024.jpgeditor2024-02-13 13:14:492025-03-27 12:29:15Genetic Engineering Webinar: What do Consumers Want? Navigating GE Issues with Jon Carapiet
On 21 November 2023, the Soil and Health Association NZ held an online webinar for an update and discussion about GE. We had over 200 attendees and some great discussion! Scroll down to read more about the webinar and to access the full recording. If you benefited from this webinar, please consider donating to Soil & Health to support our vital work, details below.
What’s the current law, what’s in our food and fields, and what does the future hold? Join Dr. Jessica Hutchings, Papawhakaritorito Charitable Trust; Philippa Jamieson, OrganicNZ magazine; and Charles Hyland, Soil and Health Association NZ in conversation.
About the panelists:
Dr Jessica Hutchings, Papawhakaritorito Charitable Trust Dr Jessica Hutchings (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Huirapa, Gujarati) is nationally and internationally recognised as a leader in Indigenous food systems and Māori food and soil sovereignty; she is a founding Trustee of the Papawhakaritorito Charitable Trust that works to uplift Māori food and soil sovereignty and Hua Parakore (Māori organics) through research, development and community practice.
Philippa Jamieson, Organic NZ Magazine Philippa Jamieson is a writer and marketing manager of Organic NZ Magazine. Philippa is an organic advocate, gardener, editor, writer and celebrant living in Dunedin. She is chair of the Organics Aotearoa NZ GE policy group, a life member of the Soil & Health Association, and involved in her local community orchard project.
Charles Hyland, Soil & Health Association Soil & Health National Councillor Charles Hyland is a soil scientist and biogeochemist who moved to NZ in 2013 after working as a scientist at Cornell University in the USA for over ten years. Organic agriculture and natural systems have always been central to his work and worldview.
Access the webinar here
Donate to support the vital work of Soil & Health
All webinars and events are free for all members of Soil and Health; otherwise we suggest a donation of $20. All funds go towards Soil & Health’s advocacy and campaign for a GE-free New Zealand, and are eligible for tax credits.
Or transfer funds to our account: BNZ, account number: 02 0108 0058415 001 With the reference: GE donation
https://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/GE-Webinar-image-for-Good-Dirt-e1699912072604-1.png509775editorhttps://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Soil-and-Health-Association_logoFA-web2024.jpgeditor2023-11-09 16:11:572023-11-09 16:11:57Genetic Engineering Panel Discussion: Where are we at in Aotearoa New Zealand
Do you want to help grow a greener, healthier future?
Can you help mobilise and inspire your local community?
Organic Week is a national celebration of organic regenerative practices that promotes a healthier planet and community.
We are looking for people who are passionate about climate-positive agriculture and sustainability and love engaging with your local community and organising events – we want to hear from you.
Volunteer Job Description: Regional Coordinator Organic Week 1-7 May 2026
Position summary:
As a Regional Coordinator for Organic Week 2026, you will play a pivotal role in promoting and celebrating organic practices within your local area. Your primary responsibilities will include recruiting and managing local volunteers, organising community events, and fostering partnerships with local organisations and businesses.
Responsibilities:
Volunteer Recruitment and Management:
Build your team. Identify and recruit enthusiastic volunteers within your region to support Organic Week initiatives.
Event Planning and Implementation
With your team, plan and execute a variety of engaging community events and activities during Organic Week 2026.
Collaborate with local organisations, schools, and community groups to maximise event participation.
Liaise with your local council regarding funding for your events
Marketing and Communication
Develop a plan to raise awareness of Organic Week activities within your region.
Optimise social media, local media outlets, and community networks to promote events and encourage participation (both online and in-person)
Community Engagement:
Foster positive relationships with local businesses and encourage their involvement by soliciting prizes and sponsorships to support you Organic Week activities.
Act as a liaison between your team and the Organic Week organisers
Requirements:
Passion for organic regenerative agriculture and sustainable practices.
Strong communication, organisational and leadership skills.
Be well connected locally within your region
Knowledge of local funding opportunities
Comfortable utilising social media
Availability to dedicate time to coordinate and oversee Organic Week events within your region.
Benefits:
Opportunity to make a significant impact in promoting organic regenerative practices and environmental sustainability within your community.
Develop leadership, event planning, and communication skills.
Build a network of like-minded individuals passionate about organic regenerative agriculture.
Gain experience in community development
Time commitment:
This is a volunteer role with a flexible time commitment, varying depending on the scale of Organic Week events in your region. Expect to dedicate several hours per week leading up to and during Organic Week (April 1 – May 7).
If you are enthusiastic about organic regenerative farming as a solution to the climate crisis, community engagement, and making a positive environmental impact, we invite you to join us as a Regional Coordinator for Organic Week. Together, we can inspire Aotearoa New Zealand to embrace organic practices and celebrate the benefits of sustainable living.
How to register your interest
To register your interest in this incredible volunteer opportunity, please send your CV and a short letter explaining why you are interested in this role to Liz.Fenwick@soilandhealth.org.nz.
On this page you can read about our one proposed remit and vote (scroll to the bottom to vote). For information about the AGM, AGM papers, and to register to attend, please visit our AGM page.
We have one remit, which is to adopt a revised constitution.
That the Soil and Health Association membership adopt the Constitution document known as the Constitution of the Soil and Health Association 2022 (the Constitution).
The National Council supports the adoption of the Constitution.
Background
The Constitution has been drafted as a result of changes to the law regarding the Incorporated Societies Bill 2022. An opportunity has been taken to:
Address any anomalies in the Soil and Health Constitution 2020 (the existing Constitution) and to
add new and make changes to rules governing various administrative matters including but not confined to conflicts of interest, termination of membership, fairness, and equity provisions in respect of relationships between members, and National Council and members.
If you are a member of Soil and Health (including subscribers to OrganicNZ magazine), you can vote for or against our remit. Electronic voting will close 5pm Thursday 5 October. Alternatively, if you attend the AGM you may vote over Zoom.
Vote now
We may contact you regarding your vote. If your membership is not current, we will ask you to pay the relevant membership fee before your vote is counted.
Any queries please contact the returning officer: manager@organicnz.org.nz
On this page you can read about the candidates and vote (scroll to the bottom to vote). For information about the AGM, AGM papers, and to register to attend, please visit our AGM page.
National council comprises of up to seven members elected for two year terms. Barbara Collis and Charles Hyland are sitting councillors not due for re-election this year. Mike Palmers stepped down from council part way through their term, and Marion Wood is finishing their term at this AGM.
The following nominations have been received for the resulting five vacant positions on national council. Two positions remain vacant.
Jenny Lux (nominated by Barbara Collis, seconded by Marion Wood)
Kaitlyn Lamb (nominated by Jenny Lux, seconded by Jeananne Kelly)
Rebecka Keeling (nominated by Jenny Lux, seconded by Trish Allen)
Candidate details
About Jenny Lux, MSc
Ngā mihi mahana, warm greetings, to the organic community in Soil & Health. I am the current Chairperson and am seeking re-election. I have been in this responsible role for only four months (having been on the council for 4 years), and in these recent times I have been steadily dealing with governance and management issues, building an amazing team of skilled staff, contractors and volunteers who will take Organic NZ magazine and our campaigns to the next level. I would like to have the chance to lead us into a collaborative and financially sound future, and to have an even better Organic Week in 2024. There are many challenges up ahead, financial and political, and we must work together to keep our Association strong and our message clear. Yes to organic growing everywhere! No to GE and pesticides! Yes to healthy soil, food, people, and climate!
About Kaitlyn Lamb
Kia ora ko Kaitlyn toku ingoa. Connection, and human, soil and ecosystem wellbeing (which is one interconnected health!) are a few of my passions. I am a compost encourager and an urban farmer from Rotorua, studying a Bachelor of Science at the University of Canterbury. At the university I co-lead The UC Compost Club and grow kai at one of the halls of residence, at Ikigai Urban Farm. My dream is to set up an urban biodynamic market garden with localised composting in Rotorua.
Since February of this year, I have voluntarily been on the council to fill in an empty spot. I am now standing for council because I would like to develop my governance skills, learn from all the incredible humans on the council and make a positive difference to the health of the soil in Aotearoa. Everything that Soil & Health stands for, is what I deeply stand for.
About Rebecka Keeling
Rebecka shares her time between Slow Blooms flower farm in Matakana and a PR consultancy in Auckland City. A digital native who brings international experience in marketing and communications, and is passionate about practicing PR with a purpose.
She holds a degree from AUT in PR and Communications, as well as a New Zealand Certificate of Horticulture and a Permaculture Design Certificate. Also the co-founder of Permaculture Mahurangi, a freelance writer, and an outspoken advocate for produce grown locally, in its natural season, with care for the earth.
Rebecka is looking forward to supporting the Soil & Health Association in reaching more people with its important messages, while strengthening its profile in social as well as in traditional media. She has already been volunteering some time in 2023 to assist the current Soil & Health National Council.
Voting instructions
Each member may cast three votes, one each for the three vacancies on national council. You may only vote once for each candidate. The three candidates with the highest number of total votes will be declared elected. Even though we have fewer candidates than vacancies we still encourage you to vote. This ensures a strong mandate and support for these volunteers putting their hands up.
If you attend the AGM, you may vote over Zoom.
Alternatively, you can vote electronically by using the form below. E-voting will close at 5pm on Thursday 5 October.
Vote now
We may contact you regarding your vote. If your membership is not current, we will ask you to pay the relevant membership fee before your vote is counted.
Any queries please contact the returning officer: manager@organicnz.org.nz
https://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Soil-and-Health-Association_logoFA-web2024.jpg00editorhttps://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Soil-and-Health-Association_logoFA-web2024.jpgeditor2023-09-06 16:08:552024-08-14 20:07:332023 Election of National Council
Nomination for Honorary Life Membership – Brendan Hoare
Jenny Lux, Chair, would like to propose a motion that the members at the AGM ratify Brendan Hoare’s nomination as an Honorary Life Member of the Association, as agreed by the National Council. The motion is seconded by Barbara Collis, Treasurer.
The original nomination for Brendan’s life membership came from Philippa Jamieson and Marion Thomson.
The Soil & Health National Council consider Brendan a very worthy candidate of an Honorary Life Membership.
Brendan has had a long involvement in organics for well over 30 years. In particular, he has had a long and loyal association with Soil & Health, and he continues to take an active part in Soil & Health activities and direction.
Brendan’s organic involvement includes studying at the BHU under Bob Crowder, teaching organics at Unitec, organising Soil & Health conferences, and sitting on Soil & Health’s National Council for several years (including as the Association’s president). Brendan has been on the World Board of IFOAM, was CEO of OANZ for several years and has been involved with BioGro and OrganicFarmNZ. Brendan is also the Founding Director of Buy Pure New Zealand.
https://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/cropped-SHA-1.png297299editorhttps://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Soil-and-Health-Association_logoFA-web2024.jpgeditor2023-06-22 12:28:472023-06-22 12:28:472023 AGM of the Soil & Health Association
New Zealand doesn’t need a loosening of GE regulation to combat climate change, it needs significant investment in organic, regenerative agriculture, says the Soil & Health Association.
Parliament recently passed the Organic Products and Production Act, with cross-party support. This should be a springboard to revolutionise our farming and exports, but making it easier to release GMOs into the environment will jeopardise that.
“By being GE-free, we’re far from ‘missing out.’ Being GE-free gives us a point of difference in the world market,” says Jenny Lux, Chair of Soil & Health.
“We already have an advantage in being an island nation in the South Pacific, and need to be really careful about any uncontrolled releases of GMOs into the outdoors. Our products are attractive to overseas buyers because they’re seen as clean, safe, natural and uncontaminated. Once we release GMOs there’s no containing them. We need to continue to safeguard our environment and our brand.”
Obvious agricultural solutions to lower greenhouse gas emissions, such as reducing or eliminating synthetic nitrogen fertilisers, have not been implemented at scale. Now there’s a renewed focus on gene technologies, which are attractive to corporates and researchers because they can be patented and commercialised.
But GE has not yet lived up to the hope or the hype. The $25 million dollar New Zealand GE ryegrass trials have not yet yielded more dry matter than traditionally bred rye grasses. These would be grown in monocultures, or with only one or two other species, which is not good for long term soil health.
“It’s already been demonstrated that diverse, mixed species pastures reduce ruminant methane emissions, and are more resilient to climate extremes,” says Jenny Lux. “Organic regenerative farming methods are free for all farmers to adopt, and unsurprisingly, they’re not under any patents.”
Soil & Health urges all NZ political parties not to loosen regulations on GE in NZ, and instead to direct attention and funding towards expanding organic farming here. Organic regenerative farming sequesters more carbon in the soil, and uses fewer costly inputs, empowering farmers. “We need research centres dedicated to organic, regenerative agriculture and farmer extension programmes to build that knowledge in rural communities,” says Jenny Lux.
https://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Jenny-Lux-Soil-and-Health-Assn-1.jpg17691649editorhttps://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Soil-and-Health-Association_logoFA-web2024.jpgeditor2023-06-12 12:27:342024-08-26 07:56:10Organic regenerative farming needed to reduce climate change, not GE
Following our public webinar on Tuesday 30 May 2023, we have finalised a submission on the National Organic Standard (NOS). This standard will form the future rules that organic farmers, growers, processors and retailers will be held to.
Soil & Health’s initial take on the draft standards document:
The organic principles section still needs a lot of work. It is important that this section is rewritten within the framework of Te Tiriti o Waitangi using the IFOAM principles of Health, Ecology, Fairness and Care to ensure international coherence. This needs to be done in partnership with iwi.
It lacks a glossary of terms, which it needs for clarity.
There are still gaps, inconsistencies and inaccuracies.
More work needs to be done on it and shared with the public (especially what’s in the supplementary notices).
We need to make a proper international comparison of our organic standard with those from our key trading partners.
We believe that it is not equivalent to EU organic regulations in allowing container growing of perennials for their whole life cycle (e.g. container blueberry farms).
Seed treated with prohibited chemicals should not be allowed under our organic standard.
The shortening of livestock conversion times in this draft is concerning.
It should be made clear that processed organic products cannot contain GMOs.
https://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Soil-and-Health-Association_logoFA-web2024.jpg00editorhttps://soilandhealth.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Soil-and-Health-Association_logoFA-web2024.jpgeditor2023-05-25 10:59:332024-08-13 08:34:24Our submission on the National Organic Standard
Special General Meeting – Saturday 4 May 2024, 10am to 12pm
/in Association Meetings and EventsThe Soil & Health Association of New Zealand held a Special General Meeting on Saturday 4th May to gauge members’ support for a new strategic vision. The meeting was held in Wellington, with those unable to attend in person attending via Zoom.
DRAFT MEETING MINUTES
The draft Minutes of the SGM can be found here.
FINANCIAL REPORT
The Financial Report presented to the SGM can be found here.
The meeting Agenda and Remits were as follows.
AGENDA
REMITS
1) That the Soil & Health Association re-register as an Incorporated Society under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022.
Proposed by National Council
Rationale: This motion is required in order for our new constitution to be registered with the Companies Office and Charities Services.
2) That the constitution be amended to include the following clause under ‘objects’: ‘To honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi’
Proposed by National Council
Rationale: This was raised at the 2023 AGM by members and National Council agrees this clause should be included.
3) That the revised constitution adopted by members at the 2023 AGM be adopted again
Proposed by National Council
Rationale: Purely procedural, in order to ensure there are no further hold-ups with this process. No further changes to the constitution are proposed with the exception of Remit #2 above.
4) That production of OrganicNZ cease until such time as it becomes financially viable.
Proposed by National Council
Rational: After extensive work to save the magazine over the last six months, and noting the current cashflow situation, there is no way production can continue.
5) That the membership fee be amended.
Proposed by National Council
Rationale: Since the membership fee was doubled last year we have seen membership rates continue to decline.
6) That an e-newsletter for members only be established
Proposed by National Council
Rationale: To help keep our members informed and up to date with our work and connected to the wider organic community.
7) That National Council be empowered to rationalise our web offerings if required
Proposed by National Council
Rationale: At present we maintain three websites: Soil & Health, OrganicNZ and Organic Week. National Council believes it needs to explore the feasibility of maintaining all of these and act accordingly once this process is completed.
Report of the 2023 AGM
/in Association Meetings and EventsThe 2023 AGM of the Soil & Health Association was held over Zoom on Saturday October 7th.
Draft Minutes
The draft Minutes of the 2023 AGM can be found here. Members who were present at the AGM may wish to suggest amendments to the Minutes, to be discussed and approved as final at the 2024 AGM.
Agenda
The Agenda was as follows:
Papers
The following papers were presented to the AGM:
Remits
The following remits were agreed upon at the meeting:
A copy of the Remits can be found here.
The draft Constitution can be found here.
Honorary Life Membership – Brendan Hoare
Members at the AGM ratified Brendan Hoare’s nomination as an Honorary Life Member of the Association, as agreed by the National Council.
The original nomination for Brendan’s life membership came from Philippa Jamieson and Marion Thomson.
Genetic Engineering Webinar: What do Consumers Want? Navigating GE Issues with Jon Carapiet
/in Association Meetings and Events, Campaigns, VideoOn 5th March 2024, the Soil & Health Association of NZ held an online webinar with Jon Carapiet, to discuss consumer issues around GE. This included the right to choose, labelling, traceability, and consumers overseas – our export markets. Scroll down to read more about the webinar and to access the full recording. If you benefited from this webinar, please consider donating to Soil & Health to support our vital work, details below.
Jon is a consumer advocate, market researcher and national spokesperson for GE Free NZ (in food and environment). For almost 20 years, Jon has spoken out about the need to moderate the powerful use of gene technology to protect New Zealand’s capacity to produce and sell non-GMO food and to protect the rights of consumers at home and overseas. As an advocate for Brand New Zealand, Jon draws on his years of experience as a senior market researcher and brand communications consultant. Jon has a Bachelor’s degree from Cambridge University and a Master’s from Auckland University, and as well as working in research, he is a keen photographer, regularly exhibiting his artwork.
Access the webinar here
The webinar can be viewed here: Jon Carapiet – 5th March 2024.
A copy of Jon’s PowerPoint presentation can be viewed here.
If you would like to view the other webinars in our GE series, please go to the GE Free Campaign page of our website.
Donate to support the vital work of Soil & Health
All webinars and events are free for all members of Soil and Health; otherwise we suggest a donation of $20. All funds go towards Soil & Health’s advocacy and campaign for a GE-free New Zealand, and are eligible for tax credits.
Make your donation by credit card: soilandhealth.org.nz/donate
Or transfer funds to our account: BNZ, account number: 02 0108 0058415 001
With the reference: GE donation
Genetic Engineering Panel Discussion: Where are we at in Aotearoa New Zealand
/in Association Meetings and Events, Campaigns, VideoOn 21 November 2023, the Soil and Health Association NZ held an online webinar for an update and discussion about GE. We had over 200 attendees and some great discussion! Scroll down to read more about the webinar and to access the full recording. If you benefited from this webinar, please consider donating to Soil & Health to support our vital work, details below.
What’s the current law, what’s in our food and fields, and what does the future hold? Join Dr. Jessica Hutchings, Papawhakaritorito Charitable Trust; Philippa Jamieson, OrganicNZ magazine; and Charles Hyland, Soil and Health Association NZ in conversation.
About the panelists:
Dr Jessica Hutchings, Papawhakaritorito Charitable Trust
Dr Jessica Hutchings (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Huirapa, Gujarati) is nationally and internationally recognised as a leader in Indigenous food systems and Māori food and soil sovereignty; she is a founding Trustee of the Papawhakaritorito Charitable Trust that works to uplift Māori food and soil sovereignty and Hua Parakore (Māori organics) through research, development and community practice.
Philippa Jamieson, Organic NZ Magazine
Philippa Jamieson is a writer and marketing manager of Organic NZ Magazine. Philippa is an organic advocate, gardener, editor, writer and celebrant living in Dunedin. She is chair of the Organics Aotearoa NZ GE policy group, a life member of the Soil & Health Association, and involved in her local community orchard project.
Charles Hyland, Soil & Health Association
Soil & Health National Councillor Charles Hyland is a soil scientist and biogeochemist who moved to NZ in 2013 after working as a scientist at Cornell University in the USA for over ten years. Organic agriculture and natural systems have always been central to his work and worldview.
Access the webinar here
Donate to support the vital work of Soil & Health
All webinars and events are free for all members of Soil and Health; otherwise we suggest a donation of $20. All funds go towards Soil & Health’s advocacy and campaign for a GE-free New Zealand, and are eligible for tax credits.
Make your donation by credit card: soilandhealth.org.nz/donate
Or transfer funds to our account: BNZ, account number: 02 0108 0058415 001
With the reference: GE donation
Organic Week Aotearoa 2026 – Volunteer Regional Co-ordinators
/in Organic Week(There won’t be an organic week in 2025)
Organic Week is a national celebration of organic regenerative practices that promotes a healthier planet and community.
We are looking for people who are passionate about climate-positive agriculture and sustainability and love engaging with your local community and organising events – we want to hear from you.
Volunteer Job Description: Regional Coordinator
Organic Week 1-7 May 2026
Position summary:
As a Regional Coordinator for Organic Week 2026, you will play a pivotal role in promoting and celebrating organic practices within your local area. Your primary responsibilities will include recruiting and managing local volunteers, organising community events, and fostering partnerships with local organisations and businesses.
Responsibilities:
Requirements:
Benefits:
Time commitment:
This is a volunteer role with a flexible time commitment, varying depending on the scale of Organic Week events in your region. Expect to dedicate several hours per week leading up to and during Organic Week (April 1 – May 7).
If you are enthusiastic about organic regenerative farming as a solution to the climate crisis, community engagement, and making a positive environmental impact, we invite you to join us as a Regional Coordinator for Organic Week. Together, we can inspire Aotearoa New Zealand to embrace organic practices and celebrate the benefits of sustainable living.
How to register your interest
To register your interest in this incredible volunteer opportunity, please send your CV and a short letter explaining why you are interested in this role to Liz.Fenwick@soilandhealth.org.nz.
2023 AGM Remits
/in Association Meetings and EventsOn this page you can read about our one proposed remit and vote (scroll to the bottom to vote). For information about the AGM, AGM papers, and to register to attend, please visit our AGM page.
We have one remit, which is to adopt a revised constitution.
Remit to AGM: To Adopt the draft Constitution
Background
The Constitution has been drafted as a result of changes to the law regarding the Incorporated Societies Bill 2022. An opportunity has been taken to:
You can read the draft constitution here: soilandhealth.org.nz/FINAL-Draft-Constitution
Voting instructions
If you are a member of Soil and Health (including subscribers to OrganicNZ magazine), you can vote for or against our remit. Electronic voting will close 5pm Thursday 5 October. Alternatively, if you attend the AGM you may vote over Zoom.
Vote now
We may contact you regarding your vote. If your membership is not current, we will ask you to pay the relevant membership fee before your vote is counted.
Any queries please contact the returning officer: manager@organicnz.org.nz
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2023 Election of National Council
/in Association Meetings and EventsOn this page you can read about the candidates and vote (scroll to the bottom to vote). For information about the AGM, AGM papers, and to register to attend, please visit our AGM page.
National council comprises of up to seven members elected for two year terms. Barbara Collis and Charles Hyland are sitting councillors not due for re-election this year. Mike Palmers stepped down from council part way through their term, and Marion Wood is finishing their term at this AGM.
The following nominations have been received for the resulting five vacant positions on national council. Two positions remain vacant.
Candidate details
About Jenny Lux, MSc
Ngā mihi mahana, warm greetings, to the organic community in Soil & Health. I am the current Chairperson and am seeking re-election. I have been in this responsible role for only four months (having been on the council for 4 years), and in these recent times I have been steadily dealing with governance and management issues, building an amazing team of skilled staff, contractors and volunteers who will take Organic NZ magazine and our campaigns to the next level. I would like to have the chance to lead us into a collaborative and financially sound future, and to have an even better Organic Week in 2024. There are many challenges up ahead, financial and political, and we must work together to keep our Association strong and our message clear. Yes to organic growing everywhere! No to GE and pesticides! Yes to healthy soil, food, people, and climate!
About Kaitlyn Lamb
Kia ora ko Kaitlyn toku ingoa. Connection, and human, soil and ecosystem wellbeing (which is one interconnected health!) are a few of my passions. I am a compost encourager and an urban farmer from Rotorua, studying a Bachelor of Science at the University of Canterbury. At the university I co-lead The UC Compost Club and grow kai at one of the halls of residence, at Ikigai Urban Farm. My dream is to set up an urban biodynamic market garden with localised composting in Rotorua.
Since February of this year, I have voluntarily been on the council to fill in an empty spot. I am now standing for council because I would like to develop my governance skills, learn from all the incredible humans on the council and make a positive difference to the health of the soil in Aotearoa. Everything that Soil & Health stands for, is what I deeply stand for.
About Rebecka Keeling
Rebecka shares her time between Slow Blooms flower farm in Matakana and a PR consultancy in Auckland City. A digital native who brings international experience in marketing and communications, and is passionate about practicing PR with a purpose.
She holds a degree from AUT in PR and Communications, as well as a New Zealand Certificate of Horticulture and a Permaculture Design Certificate. Also the co-founder of Permaculture Mahurangi, a freelance writer, and an outspoken advocate for produce grown locally, in its natural season, with care for the earth.
Rebecka is looking forward to supporting the Soil & Health Association in reaching more people with its important messages, while strengthening its profile in social as well as in traditional media. She has already been volunteering some time in 2023 to assist the current Soil & Health National Council.
Voting instructions
Each member may cast three votes, one each for the three vacancies on national council. You may only vote once for each candidate. The three candidates with the highest number of total votes will be declared elected. Even though we have fewer candidates than vacancies we still encourage you to vote. This ensures a strong mandate and support for these volunteers putting their hands up.
If you attend the AGM, you may vote over Zoom.
Alternatively, you can vote electronically by using the form below. E-voting will close at 5pm on Thursday 5 October.
Vote now
We may contact you regarding your vote. If your membership is not current, we will ask you to pay the relevant membership fee before your vote is counted.
Any queries please contact the returning officer: manager@organicnz.org.nz
2023 AGM of the Soil & Health Association
/in Association Meetings and EventsThe 2023 AGM will be held at 10am over Zoom on Saturday October 7th.
Save the Zoom link ahead of time: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85315336734
Register now
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Vote in the 2023 Election of National Council
Read about the candidates and vote here: soilandhealth.org.nz/association-meetings-and-events/2023-election-of-national-council
Electronic voting will close 5pm Thursday 5 October. If you attend the AGM as a member, you can vote on the day.
Agenda
A PDF of the AGM Agenda is available here. Please note that the previously advised agenda was amended on 4th October 2023.
Draft minutes
The draft minutes of the 2022 AGM are available here: Draft minutes of the 2022 AGM
Papers
The AGM papers are available below:
Remits
We have one remit, which is to adopt a revised constitution. To read more about the remit, and vote, see: soilandhealth.org.nz/association-meetings-and-events/2023-agm-remits/
Nomination for Honorary Life Membership – Brendan Hoare
Jenny Lux, Chair, would like to propose a motion that the members at the AGM ratify Brendan Hoare’s nomination as an Honorary Life Member of the Association, as agreed by the National Council. The motion is seconded by Barbara Collis, Treasurer.
The original nomination for Brendan’s life membership came from Philippa Jamieson and Marion Thomson.
The Soil & Health National Council consider Brendan a very worthy candidate of an Honorary Life Membership.
Brendan has had a long involvement in organics for well over 30 years. In particular, he has had a long and loyal association with Soil & Health, and he continues to take an active part in Soil & Health activities and direction.
Brendan’s organic involvement includes studying at the BHU under Bob Crowder, teaching organics at Unitec, organising Soil & Health conferences, and sitting on Soil & Health’s National Council for several years (including as the Association’s president). Brendan has been on the World Board of IFOAM, was CEO of OANZ for several years and has been involved with BioGro and OrganicFarmNZ. Brendan is also the Founding Director of Buy Pure New Zealand.
Organic regenerative farming needed to reduce climate change, not GE
/in Farming, Media Releases, OrganicsNew Zealand doesn’t need a loosening of GE regulation to combat climate change, it needs significant investment in organic, regenerative agriculture, says the Soil & Health Association.
Parliament recently passed the Organic Products and Production Act, with cross-party support. This should be a springboard to revolutionise our farming and exports, but making it easier to release GMOs into the environment will jeopardise that.
“By being GE-free, we’re far from ‘missing out.’ Being GE-free gives us a point of difference in the world market,” says Jenny Lux, Chair of Soil & Health.
“We already have an advantage in being an island nation in the South Pacific, and need to be really careful about any uncontrolled releases of GMOs into the outdoors. Our products are attractive to overseas buyers because they’re seen as clean, safe, natural and uncontaminated. Once we release GMOs there’s no containing them. We need to continue to safeguard our environment and our brand.”
Obvious agricultural solutions to lower greenhouse gas emissions, such as reducing or eliminating synthetic nitrogen fertilisers, have not been implemented at scale. Now there’s a renewed focus on gene technologies, which are attractive to corporates and researchers because they can be patented and commercialised.
But GE has not yet lived up to the hope or the hype. The $25 million dollar New Zealand GE ryegrass trials have not yet yielded more dry matter than traditionally bred rye grasses. These would be grown in monocultures, or with only one or two other species, which is not good for long term soil health.
“It’s already been demonstrated that diverse, mixed species pastures reduce ruminant methane emissions, and are more resilient to climate extremes,” says Jenny Lux. “Organic regenerative farming methods are free for all farmers to adopt, and unsurprisingly, they’re not under any patents.”
Soil & Health urges all NZ political parties not to loosen regulations on GE in NZ, and instead to direct attention and funding towards expanding organic farming here. Organic regenerative farming sequesters more carbon in the soil, and uses fewer costly inputs, empowering farmers. “We need research centres dedicated to organic, regenerative agriculture and farmer extension programmes to build that knowledge in rural communities,” says Jenny Lux.
Our submission on the National Organic Standard
/in Campaigns, SubmissionsFollowing our public webinar on Tuesday 30 May 2023, we have finalised a submission on the National Organic Standard (NOS). This standard will form the future rules that organic farmers, growers, processors and retailers will be held to.
Submissions to MPI were due on Friday 16 June 2023. Here is the latest MPI update on the proposal: https://mpi.govt.nz/…/proposals-for-the-national…/
Soil & Health’s initial take on the draft standards document: