Should genetically-engineered trees be planted in New Zealand forests? That's one of the debates to emerge as the government moves to make changes to the National Environmental Standards on Plantation Forestry.
The committee hearing public submissions were in Rotorua today.
Tarapuhi Waaka says, “That will see the beginning of problems regarding genetic modification for us all.”
There's concern too for native trees and the effect GE trees may have on them.
It's believed local council authority is also under threat when it comes to decision making around planting GE trees in their areas.
It's certainly an issue being debated around the world. Two years ago, over 300 GE trees were damaged at SCION research institute in Rotorua.
The submission period will close in August.