2024 Nuffield Report - Coding for Change: Navigating adoption of gene editing in the New Zealand primary sector

In this episode, Sarah Perriam-Lampp talks with Nuffield Scholar Rachel Baker about her research into the potential future of gene editing in New Zealand’s primary industries which formed the basis of her 2024 Nuffield scholarship. Rachel explored how New Zealand could responsibly adopt the technology while protecting its global reputation. 

She highlights international models, like Norway’s, and sees early potential in horticulture. Emphasising transparency, trade alignment, and inclusivity, Rachel believes gene editing should be farmer-led and value-driven—supporting innovation while respecting consumer choice and the diverse values across New Zealand’s food and fibre sectors.

Guest:

• Rachel Baker, Nuffield Scholar

Host:

• Sarah Perriam-Lampp, CEO and Editor-in-Chief, Country-Wide

 

Rachel Baker, a 2024 Nuffield New Zealand Scholar, explores how gene editing could enhance the resilience and competitiveness of Aotearoa’s food and fibre sectors—if introduced through thoughtful, well-calibrated regulation. In her report she advocates for a balanced approach that both protects New Zealand’s global brand and embraces the benefits of scientific advancement.

Baker’s international research took her across North America and Europe, where she assessed how different countries regulate gene editing and GM technologies. She highlights Norway’s case-by-case approach as a standout—one that considers not just scientific safety but broader impacts such as environmental outcomes, social acceptance, and trade implications. Though more demanding to implement, this model aligns closely with New Zealand’s values around transparency, trust, and integrity.

She sees near-term potential for gene editing in permanent horticulture—such as apples and bananas—with traits like disease resistance and shorter breeding cycles. These applications could reduce inputs and unlock premium export markets. Pastoral innovations, like low-emissions ryegrass or nitrogen-fixing clovers, may take longer but offer transformative environmental benefits. Baker also points to opportunities in licensing clean agricultural technologies, positioning New Zealand as an IP exporter, not just a commodity producer.

Maintaining access to key markets, she argues, will require robust traceability systems, clear labelling, and early engagement with trade partners. It's vital that organic and GE-free sectors retain space to operate and that regulation remains accessible to businesses of all sizes.

Ultimately, Baker believes adoption must come from the ground up. She urges farmers, growers, exporters, and regulators to collaborate openly, ensuring gene editing delivers practical value while respecting cultural and commercial priorities. Her Nuffield experience reinforced the urgency of adapting to global shifts—and the importance of shaping New Zealand’s response on its own terms.

 

Read Rachel’s Nuffield report here.

 

Subscribe to Country-Wide magazine for $79/year for four seasonal magazines including free postage annually: https://country-wide.co.nz/shop/ 

SUBSCRIBE TO THE COUNTRY-WIDE WEEKLY EMAIL

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.