The Association was established in 1945 to promote biodynamic methods. The objects of the Association are to foster, guide and safeguard in New Zealand the biodynamic approach to agriculture, horticulture, forestry and animal husbandry as initiated by Rudolf Steiner in 1924 and as practised progressively since that time. The association is affiliated with the General Anthroposophical Society.



Membership is open to anyone interested in biodynamic farming and gardening methods. There are currently about 800 members who include farmers, processors, orchardists, commercial and home gardeners as well as others who wish to support this work. New members receive a copy of the current Bio Dynamic Farming and Gardening Calendar, copies of Harvests, a Resource Directory and information on a range of management practices such as how to make compost and liquid manures.



Biodynamic methods work toward the development of the farm or garden as a balanced and sustainable unit. They include organic practices such as crop rotation, recycling through composts and liquid manures, and increasing plant and animal bio diversity. Use of special plant, animal and mineral preparations stimulate and balance vital processes in soil and plants. The rhythmic influences of the sun, moon, planets and stars are recognised and worked with where possible. These methods lead to a natural reduction of pests and diseases in plants and animals, and an increase in the nutritive and health giving value of food produced.



Other services of the Association



Advisory service: The Association has advisers available for farm visits to members, covering most fields of agriculture and horticulture and most of New Zealand. All members working toward Demeter certification require an annual advisory or inspection visit, according to the stage they have reached. To arrange a visit please contact the Association office.



Magazine: The Association`s magazine, Harvests is published quarterly and sent to all members as part of their annual subscription entitlement. Subscription is via membership. It covers mainly practical aspects of biodynamic farming and gardening ideas and solutions.



Calendar: A comprehensive calendar providing information on moon and planet cycles and explanations on how to use the information to enable farming and gardening activities to be carried out at optimal times.



Education: Field days, seminars and discussions are held in many regions. Hawke`s Bay Biodynamic Organic Education Trust runs longer courses.