Summarised by Centrist
New Zealand First says it will withhold support for the government’s Gene Tech bill unless major changes are made to protect New Zealand’s “GE-free” reputation and strengthen oversight of genetic modification.
The party said it supports updating outdated gene technology laws but argues the current bill goes too far. “New Zealand has a pre-eminent position in markets as a ‘GE Free Nation’ and this should not be traded lightly,” its statement said. NZ First described itself as open to a “responsible, safe, and pragmatic” approach to genetic technologies but warned that the current version is “far too liberal, beyond our key trading partners, and lacks strong safeguards and protections.”
The party said it will continue discussions with coalition partners to tighten the legislation. Its position contrasts with ACT, which raised concerns about the inclusion of a Māori advisory committee and the use of tikanga as a guiding standard but said it would not block the bill.
The Taxpayers’ Union has also voiced concerns regarding the inclusion of a Māori advisory committee, arguing it would result in ‘rent seeking’.
Labour and the Greens also criticised the legislation, with Labour warning of limited consultation and weak environmental protections, and the Greens calling it a “radical liberalisation” that risks contamination of GMO-free producers.
The select committee report proposed several changes supported across Parliament, including greater independence for the regulator, stricter reporting requirements, and expanded consultation rules.
NZ First’s stance suggests the bill’s passage will depend on whether the government agrees to tighter controls on how and when genetic modification is introduced.
Critics note that, despite overwhelming public opposition to the bill during the committee process, the government is set to proceed.
