Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ)

Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ) is the national voice for the organic sector, working to grow a thriving organic future for Aotearoa New Zealand. We represent a diverse network of farmers, producers, processors, exporters and retailers, united by a shared vision for a food and farming system that supports the health of our people, land, and economy. Established in 2006, OANZ is a member-based non-profit organisation leading change across food, farming, and policy. We bring together the sector to collaborate on national strategies, build influence, and support the next generation of organic leaders. In 2022, we co-developed a sector-wide strategy to guide this work and grow organic production across the motu. Our key focus is on growing the organic sector’s capacity, securing strong policy outcomes, and raising awareness of the benefits of organic and regenerative practices. We support farmer-led learning and research, develop infrastructure for knowledge sharing, and work with partners to create tools that connect and upskill the sector. Through high-level advocacy, we ensure that organics is part of the national conversation, championing regulation like the Organic Products and Production Bill and speaking out on issues like genetic engineering, food safety and climate change. We also tell powerful, evidence-based stories about how organic farming protects biodiversity, improves soil and water health, and builds climate resilience, making the case for organic as a solution. OANZ is both a movement and a platform for action. We believe that by working together, we can shift the system towards one that values transparency, regeneration, and care for people and planet.