Last week, Ministers and Members of Parliament filled the Beehive’s Theatrette to watch the UK regenerative farming documentary, Six Inches of Soil, and discuss the role of soil in addressing New Zealand’s food, farming and climate challenges.

Hosted by Quorum Sense, the cross-party event was well attended by agricultural ministers and MPs across primary production, climate, food and rural issues.

Celebrating soil and farming

Barbara Kuriger, National MP for Taranaki-King Country and Deputy Speaker of the House, said: “Six Inches of Soil was a celebration of soil and farming. It really brought home the opportunity that exists right under our feet. We are all dealing with droughts and floods, we are dealing with generational change in farming. We have a big job in front of us, but we also have a big opportunity to ensure we are all living well on the whenua.”

Six Inches of Soil was released in the UK earlier this year. It follows three young British farmers on the first year of their regenerative agriculture journey. As the trio strive to adopt regenerative practices and create viable businesses, they meet seasoned mentors who help them on their journey including New Zealand-born agroecologist, Nicole Masters.

Farming that's positive for nature

Chair for Quorum Sense, Becks Smith said, “We brought the film to Aotearoa to educate communities about soil and to show how farming can be a positive for nature. Regenerative agriculture is an avenue for hope in our rural sector.

“There is a growing global movement to regenerate our agricultural landscapes. The answer to achieving sustainability in our sector is by regenerating. We must be net positive across all metrics, or something will have to give.”