Smarter rules, stronger future - APHANZ welcomes reform bills opportunity
Proposed reforms to the approval process for critical tools used by farmers and growers mark the most significant regulatory change in years, says Animal and Plant Health New Zealand (APHANZ), which represents the people behind these tools.
“The introduction of the ACVM Act and HSNO Act Bills by Ministers Andrew Hoggard and Nicola Grigg is a major step forward in the long-awaited reform of New Zealand’s regulatory system for agricultural and horticultural products,” says Gavin Kerr, Chair of APHANZ.
“We have advocated for this reform for many years, with strong support from the primary sector. We acknowledge the commitment of ministers, officials and regulators who have worked hard to bring the Bills forward alongside their day-to-day responsibilities.
“We share the same goal as regulators - legislation that supports innovation, protects people and the environment, improves primary sector productivity and keeps New Zealand competitive.
“We now need to ensure the legislation is practical, fit-for-purpose and enables the industry to deliver a broad toolkit to support the primary sector to tackle pests and manage diseases,” says Kerr.
APHANZ Chief Executive Dr Liz Shackleton says the reforms will affect every New Zealander in some way.
“These reforms are about food security, animal health, and the cost of living for everyday New Zealanders - not just technical housekeeping.
“These tools are essential to the primary sector’s ability to produce safe, affordable food and the medicines that care for our pets at home.
“Our members are committed to innovating in New Zealand, and these reforms offer a positive opportunity to address regulatory uncertainty that has been holding them back.
“Improved access to these tools will provide farmers, growers and veterinarians greater certainty, affordability and choice - and ultimately, ease pressures that are felt by every household,” says Dr Shackleton.
She adds Cabinet has already set a very clear direction for reform.
“The Government has clearly signalled the need for a regulatory system that is proportionate, efficient, transparent and certain, through its response to the Ministry for Regulation’s 2025 review of agricultural and horticultural products.
“The task now is to ensure the draft Bills fully reflect that intent and make the most of the opportunity to deliver impact on the ground.
“On behalf of our members, we congratulate Ministers David Seymour, Andrew Hoggard and Nicola Grigg for progressing the Bills,” says Dr Shackleton.
“We also acknowledge the hard work of officials and regulators.
“As always, the detail will matter most. Drawing on deep industry experience - and lessons from major reforms such as the RMA and Medicines Act - our members will contribute their lived experience and practical insights over the coming weeks to help shape legislation that is workable and enduring,” says Dr Shackleton.
Over the coming weeks, APHANZ will put the draft Bills through their paces - to assess if they deliver on Cabinet’s intent, reflect industry feedback, and establish clear timeframes that drive certainty and accountability.
“This is an opportunity to modernise New Zealand’s regulatory system to support innovation, investment and smart, risk-appropriate decision-making.
“Industry backs the Government’s roadmap for change. We remain forward-looking and solutions-focused, and we stand ready to support the process so the outcomes we all seek are realised.”
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