Regional Group Name

Otago Organics

About Otago Organics

Otago Organics was established in 2000.

The main purpose of Otago Organics is to:

• Foster the growth of organics within Otago and Southland;
• Deliver the OrganicFarmNZ certification scheme to all interested organic growers; and
• Inform and educate the wider public on the benefits of growing and eating organic food.

We apply the most rigorous process of verification to ensure that our certified produce attains the highest possible standard within NZ, beginning with a complete soil residue testing regime through to detailed and transparent peer review and independent audit oversight.

A key feature is the networking and information swapping amongst our growers, helping everyone improve and learn.

We care about the food you eat and the environment you live in.

Otago Organics is administrated by the Chairman and regional pod leaders.

Regular activities of the group include:

• Training;
• Advising growers;
• Marketing(e.g. farmers markets, food and wine festivals); and
• Networking amongst growers and interested persons.

Geography

The Otago region covers producers from Clinton in the South, Wanaka to the West and Hampden and Waianakarua in the North.

We are looking to expand further into Southland in the coming season.

Fees

• Regional fees for producers joining a pod are $375 – inclusive of membership and certification fees.
• Fees for producers joining as an individual is $375 – inclusive of membership and certification fees + audit costs.
• Associate or supporting members of the region pay $25.

Contacts

The Certification Manager is Robin Mitchell kunzearobin@gmail.com. The Auditor is Bobb Burton.

The names of the regional committee are: Dennis Enright – Chair and NCC rep,   Andy Barratt – Liaison Officer, Sue Barratt - Secretary.

Updated September 2008