The New Zealand government is pushing ahead with a new Gene Technology Bill, promising faster approvals, more innovation, and big breakthroughs in biotech. Sounds great on the surface, right? But take a closer look, and it becomes clear this Bill poses serious risks—to our environment, our economy, and even our values as a country. So let’s talk about why this matters—and why we need to press pause.
Playing with Nature, Without the Safety Net
New Zealand has always taken a careful, precautionary approach to genetic modification (GM). That’s because we know that once you start releasing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) into the environment, you can’t always control the outcome. Think cross-pollination, unintended mutations, and irreversible ecological changes. The new Bill throws much of that caution out the window, speeding up approval processes and giving regulators more power to push GM projects through.
This is science without a safety net. And when it comes to our ecosystems and food supply, that’s a gamble we shouldn’t take lightly.
Our Environment Is Not a Testing Ground
We’re lucky to live in a country with some of the most unique and fragile ecosystems in the world. But these environments weren’t built to handle sudden genetic changes introduced by human hands. The risks of GMOs escaping into the wild, mixing with native species, or creating new super-pests are real—and once these things happen, there’s no going back.
Let’s not make Aotearoa a global experiment in genetic engineering.
“Clean and Green” Isn’t Just a Slogan
New Zealand’s economy depends heavily on our reputation as a pure, natural, GMO-free country. That’s what helps sell our food, wine, wool, and tourism experience around the world. If we let GMOs into the system, we risk losing access to premium markets—especially in places like Europe, where consumers are strongly opposed to genetic modification. This isn’t just about values. It’s about livelihoods.
Our farmers, exporters, and tourism operators have a lot to lose if the Bill goes ahead.
Ignoring Māori Voices
The Bill has also sparked real concern from Māori communities. Genetic modification raises big questions about whakapapa (genealogy), mauri (life force), and kaitiakitanga (guardianship). But instead of deeply engaging with Māori perspectives, the government seems to be rushing forward, ticking boxes without truly listening.
That’s not just disrespectful—it’s a violation of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Where’s the Public Involvement?
One of the most frustrating things about the Gene Technology Bill is how it puts a lot of decision-making power in the hands of a few ministers and government agencies. There’s not enough public input, not enough transparency, and not enough time to fully understand the implications.
This is a huge shift in how we handle science and innovation. We all deserve a say.
There Are Better Ways
Here’s the good news: New Zealand’s scientists are doing incredible things with non-GM technology—like advanced plant breeding, regenerative farming, and sustainable pest control. We can absolutely tackle food security, climate change, and health challenges without opening Pandora’s box.
Why risk our future on untested gene tech when we already have smarter, safer options?
The Bottom Line
The Gene Technology Bill is being sold as modern, science-led, and forward-thinking. But in reality, it’s reckless, undemocratic, and out of step with what most New Zealanders want.
This isn’t anti-science. It’s pro-caution, pro-democracy, and pro-nature. Let’s slow down, have a real national conversation, and choose a path that protects what makes Aotearoa special.
– Jane Wilson, CoOperativeNZ 2025
