Genetic Engineering (GE) is back on the table in Aotearoa — but how much do most of us really know about it? Whether you’re for it, against it, or not quite sure what it is — this is a space to learn, ask questions, and engage respectfully.
As new legislation looms, we’re bringing together scientists, farmers, iwi, trade and consumer voices for a candid, constructive conversation.
From CRISPR to consumer trust, this event brings together a diverse panel of experts and lived experiences to unpack the opportunities, risks, and unknowns of GE in New Zealand’s food and fibre sector. The purpose of this event is not to debate who’s right — but a conversation to learn, to better understand what’s at stake and how we can navigate these choices together.
This event invites you into an open, diverse and educational conversation designed to unpack the opportunities, risks and realities of GE in Aotearoa
Note: Future Farmers NZ holds no official stance on GE. Our mission is to create space for constructive, courageous conversation.
Forum Rules:
○ This is the space to respect opinion and foster constructive conversations. Framing opposing views as diverse contributions, not divisions.
○ Acknowledging we won’t all agree on the topic, but we need to have the tough conversations.
○ Acknowledge the discomfort — We know GE can be polarising, but that’s exactly why we’re having this conversation today.
Timings
● 3.30pm Doors open
● 4.00pm Opening Remarks from FFNZ / Lincoln
● 4.10pm Forum Start
● 5.10pm Forum Finish
● 5.15pm Networking and Refreshments.
● 7.00pm Event Concludes
Wednesday 12th November
3.30pm - 7.00pm
Waimarie Building, Lincoln University
Brought to you in partnership with:
Future Farmers New Zealand
Future Farmers NZ is a collective of New Zealanders passionate about ahuwhenua and guided by the principles of kaitiakitanga. Its members include farmers, students, professionals, and urban dwellers, all united by a shared belief in the potential of Aotearoa’s food and fibre sectors to benefit both people and the planet.
The group aims to discuss and inform beliefs, principles, and policies that shape the future of New Zealand’s food and fibre systems, grounded in their continuously evolving Manifesto.
About Our Speakers
Watch this space as we confirm panellists for this event!
Facilitators
Even McCallum, Future Farmers
Eve McCallum is a fifth-year Law and Arts student (majoring in Communications and Politics) at the University of Otago. With deep roots in both agriculture and public policy, Eve grew up on a dairy farm in Maungaturoto, Northland, and has been actively involved in politics since her early teens, including serving as a Youth Member of Parliament in 2016. A long-time member of the Young Nats, she brings a unique perspective that bridges rural experience and legislative insight. Passionate about sustainable land use, Eve advocates for a shift from pine to native tree planting and dreams of a world where everyone better understands the realities of farming.
Alan Renwick, Lincoln University Centre of Excellence in Transformative Agribusiness
Alan Renwick has been Professor of Agriculture Economics at Lincoln University since November 2015. Prior to moving to New Zealand, he worked in academic institutions in England, Scotland and Ireland. During his 30 year career he has undertaken research on a wide range of issues facing the agrifood sector for both government bodies and industry. Recently a key focus of his work has been on the economics of existing and novel land uses and the processes involved in land-use transformation and adaptation to climate change. He is currently Co-Chair of the Lincoln University Centre of Excellence in Transformative Agribusiness which aims to be at the international forefront of solutions that will enhance the sustainability of the food and fibre sectors. Its role is to support the development of new products and new ways of working that increase economic and social value while reducing the environmental impacts of agribusinesses.