Welcome to the NZ Hemp Industries Association
Following New Zealand’s most significant industrial hemp reform in almost 20 years, a new era of hemp cultivation has begun, creating new opportunities for education, research and small-scale growing across Aotearoa. Discover how you can get involved and purchase seed through the newly launched NZHIA Seed Project.
EDUCATE:
New to the Industry?
Learn more about the 2026
regulation changes
Find more detailed information and guidance about the regulation
changes and what is required of growers moving forward
GROW:
The NZHIA Seed Project
For the first time in a 100 years, everyday New Zealanders have the opportunity to grow industrial hemp across Aotearoa
Buy industrial hemp seed with the NZHIA Seed Project
ADVOCATE:
A cause in your hands
The NZHIA hemp bag campaign
Our limited-edition tote bag, was created to raise awareness
for New Zealand’s growing iHemp industry.
Every purchase helps fund education, advocacy, and the next step —
creating a 100% compostable hemp bag made in Aotearoa NZ.
Subscribe to our public newsletter for updates on the industrial hemp industry in New Zealand and the world!
Growing Hemp in New Zealand:
What does it take and who can do it?
FAQ: Is Hemp Marijuana? – Can you get high from smoking hemp?
Short answer: No (Same family, different cultivars).
They both come from the same plant species, but from out of 600 known cultivars, marijuana has been selectively bred to have high THC content, while industrial hemp naturally contains much less than 1% THC. (Marijuana needs 3-18% THC to have any effect on humans.) Click here for more info about the two plants.
Latest News & Media Updates:
General Updates:
Legislation Updates:
“Whatever can be made with hydrocarbons can be made with carbohydrates” – Henry Ford
Industrial hemp is an ideal crop, producing enormous volumes of high quality biomass in a short growing cycle.