We are pleased to announce that the Commissioner of Plant Variety Rights has appointed members to establish the Māori Plant Varieties Committee under the Plant Variety Rights Act 2022.
Following a robust recruitment process between July and November 2024, which attracted a number of high quality candidates, the Commissioner has appointed the following persons to the Committee:
- Aroha Mead
- Dale Stephens
- Graeme Atkins.
These appointees bring a wealth of relevant knowledge and experience to this important kaupapa.
The establishment of this committee is a world-leading initiative, and it will play a crucial role in helping to protect kaitiaki relationships with taonga species and mātauranga Māori in the Plant Variety Rights system in New Zealand.
We look forward to working with the Committee as they come into operation in the coming weeks, and begin their important mahi.
Under the Plant Variety Rights Act 2022, the Committee will assess Plant Variety Rights applications that may have adverse effects on kaitiaki relationships with their respective plant variety. It will also issue engagement guidelines, and advise the Commissioner whether the use or approval of a proposed denomination is likely to be offensive to Māori.
More information on the Māori Plant Varieties Committee, and committees for other types of intellectual property, can be found on our website: