Say NO to The Gene Technology Bill
14,458 New Zealanders made submissions on the Gene Technology Bill — and 14,023 of them (97%) said NO. But more than 4.1 million adults stayed silent. Silence is what allows politicians to ignore us. It’s time to change that.
The Health Select Committee has now released its report. Despite overwhelming opposition, it has recommended the Bill be passed. Why? Because those 14,458 voices add up to just 0.36% of New Zealand’s adult population. For MPs, that makes it easy to dismiss as a “vocal minority.”
👉 This is the reality: even when nearly every submission rejects a proposal, politicians can brush it aside if the wider public doesn’t join in.
So here’s the challenge for all of us — GE-free groups, organic advocates, local food co-ops, health communities, environmental networks: we must raise awareness, mobilize beyond our circles, and make far more noise.
Imagine if instead of 14,458 submissions, there had been 150,000. Or half a million. That would be impossible to ignore.
⚠️ And remember: this is not a done deal. The Bill still has to pass further stages in the House before it becomes law. That means there’s still time to act.
Now is the time to get vocal:
📣 Contact MPs directly
www3.parliament.nz...
💬 Flood social media with concern
🎙️ Use old-school talkback radio to reach those who aren’t online
If we want to protect our food, our farms, and our future, we can’t just rely on a few thousand engaged voices. We need a movement too loud to dismiss.
NZCCM Massage and English Programmes
The New Zealand College of Chinese Medicine (NZCCM) offers industry-focused Massage and English programmes that prepare students for professional practice.
Students gain strong Anatomy and Physiology knowledge, hands-on experience in the student clinic, and pathways into health and wellbeing careers. NZCCM actively incorporates tikanga Māori and Te Ao Māori, partnering with local marae for cultural learning and community treatments.
As Auckland’s only provider of Massage diplomas, NZCCM is enrolling now for February 2026 Programmes include the Level 5 Wellness and Relaxation Massage Diploma and the Level 6 Remedial Massage Diploma, both NZQA-approved with intensive block courses. NZCCM also offers NZCEL Level 4 for academic English preparation.
Open Days will be held on 12 December and 23 January.
Contact: 09 580 2376 or auck@chinesemedicine.ac.nz
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Night-time roadworks on SH16
From 23 November to 17 December, stop/go traffic management will be in several locations on SH16 between Mabbett Lane and Restall Road (Sundays to Thursdays, 9pm to 5am).
Works will include chipsealing and stormwater improvements. There may be delays to your journey when travelling through the area. Click to find out more.
Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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53.1% Yes
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46.9% No
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