Kia ora koutou and welcome to the May edition of MPI Organic News.

We're continuing to refine the proposals for the National Organic Standard, and we want to hear from you! We've entered the public consultation period from 21 April with the last day for submissions extended to 16 June, and we really encourage you to provide feedback. You can do this in a couple of ways: attend one of our virtual drop-in sessions (see dates and times below) or send us a written submission to OrganicsConsultation@mpi.govt.nz.

We understand that the timeframe for consultation has been difficult to meet for many during this busy period. We would like to thank you for your engagement throughout the process and hope that the extension allows for greater understanding of the proposal content and the time to form your submission.

Virtual drop-in sessions dates and times:

Tuesday 23 May 9:30 am – 11:00 am: General/Plants/Inputs Requirements

Wednesday 24 May 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm: General/Livestock Requirements

We will be looking to run an introductory information session for what it would involve in becoming recognised entity or person to perform evaluation and verification services under the new regime and answer any questions you have. Please get in touch with us via:  OrganicsConsultation@mpi.govt.nz and we will be in touch with when this information session is happening.

MPI is continuing to work with the Parliamentary Counsel Office on drafting the process regulations for approving organic businesses and recognising third parties to carry out evaluation and verification.

We are also developing some information sheets setting out the new system which will be available on our website soon!

The Organics Products and Production Bill received Royal Assent on 5 April 2023, and became the Organic Products and Production Act. The new legislation will not have legal effect until the national standard and regulations are developed and in place. The final version of the Act is available on the Legislation website here

This is a great step forward on the path to regulating organics, and deserves a big thank you to all those in the sector who have been involved in advocating for and shaping this new piece of legislation.

The next council meeting is scheduled for the 22 June. This will be a virtual meeting for MPI and Organic Sector Advisory council members to get together and discuss progress on the legislative regime, as well as listen to issues that are facing the organics sector in Aotearoa.

Tribute to Shona Scott

Last Friday afternoon we received word of the passing of our friend and colleague Shona Scott.

We wish to acknowledge the many kind messages we have received from across the Organic sector.  We will be forwarding these on the Shona’s family. They highlight her kind soul, patience, and the positive impact she has had on so many. 

We’ve provided excerpts of some of the messages we’ve received below –

Shona has been described as the strong silent driver in the background for Organics. Her ability to foster long lasting and positive relationships within the sector has not gone unnoticed.

While many had hoped for a different outcome the progress that she helped kick start and what has progressed during her time, is truly incredible and appreciated.

As a mentor and in her professional capacity she has guided many with patience, clarity and a kind smile.

Shona was a wonderful friend, mentor and colleague. She will be sadly missed, and our thoughts are with her friends and whānau.

Left: Shona Scott at the first Organic Sector Advisory Council meeting