New! Plant Pass Version 2.0 is now live

This week the Plant Pass scheme is rolling out its first major update since the nursery production standard for plant health and biosecurity was launched in 2022.

The new Plant Pass Version 2.0 ensures the scheme is practical, relevant and easier to apply in day-to-day operations across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Scaling up with integrity

Four years into the scheme, Plant Pass continues to grow in both strength and reputation, with almost 100 registered producers, including 30 fully certified.

As more producers join the Plant Pass scheme, Version 2.0 ensures consistency and scalability across certification. This strengthens the scheme's integrity and maintains confidence in the Plant Pass standard.

Sector auditor model

As part of Version 2.0, a new sector auditor model ensures that the shift to Version 2.0 is matched with auditors who have experience in the sector and understand producers’ operations.

Refreshed checklists

See Scheme documents to see Version 2.0 documentation, including the checklists which are now individual documents so they can be tailored to your operation:

• Plant Pass Core Standard Checklist V2.0
• Plant Pass Kauri Checklist V2.0
• Plant Pass Myrtle Rust Checklist V2.0

Get started with Plant Pass

Now is a great time to get started with Plant Pass, with a more accessible and practical certification process. Find out how to become a Plant Pass Certified Producer, including the pathway to certification.

See Frequently Asked Questions below for further details or please get in touch if you have any questions. Email office@plantpass.org.nz.

• What are the key changes in Version 2.0 checklists?

  In the refreshed Plant Pass Version 2.0 there are now three individual checklists, the Core Standard plus Myrtle Rust and Kauri which are added on if these species are grown at your operation. The key changes apply to the Core Standard.

  The refreshed Plant Pass Version 2.0:

  • Simplifies the scheme by making the checklist the one key document required

  • Incorporates multiple standards - one auditor up the driveway to meet requirements for biosecurity readiness and response, traceability, pest plants and weeds

  • Removes duplication and unnecessary requirements for a less complex and more relevant checklist, better aligned with day-to-day nursery practice

  • Has wide acceptance across councils, growers and regulators.

  For a more detailed overview of all changes in the checklist, see full Plant Pass Checklist 1.4 and 2.0 version variations in structure and content (PDF).

• How were the changes decided?

  In 2024–2025, Plant Pass, with Governance Group oversight and advice from a Technical Advisory Group, completed a full review on the Core Standard based on feedback since Plant Pass’s launch in 2022.

  The result of this review is Plant Pass Version 2.0 and the new sector auditor model. Consultation on the changes, included pilot audits against the proposed changes with scheme producers . We thank everyone who contributed to this.

• Is there a transition period for existing Plant Pass producers?

  We recognise that producers have integrated or are currently integrating Plant Pass processes into their operations. For this reason, producers have a 12-month crossover period until March 2027. During this time, both the previous version and Version 2.0 will be accepted, giving producers flexibility as they transition or work towards certification.

  Plant Pass recommends switching to Version 2.0 as soon as possible to benefit from the many improvements. Enquire with Plant Pass for updated supporting documents including technical guidance and templates.

  We thank producers for their understanding as the new auditing approach is embedded across the scheme. We will stay in direct contact with registered nurseries and keep the website updated as developments progress.

• How can producers use the new sector auditor model?

  The new sector auditor model ensures that the shift to Version 2.0 is matched with auditors who have experience in the sector and understand producers’ operations.

  ‍Please contact us to book a Plant Pass approved external auditor.

  The new sector auditor model:

  • Establishes a structured pathway for appointing auditors, combining independent auditing with central coordination

  • ‍Increases training, calibration and peer review, meaning auditors will consistently interpret the checklists

  • Ensures audits will be carried out by people with proven nursery knowledge and sector-specific experience, who understand common challenges and recognise realistic, achievable practice

  • ‍Broadens the auditor base to provide more timely support to nurseries and reduce barriers to certification, while upholding the integrity of the programme.‍

• Are the costs for Plant Pass also changing?

  Plant Pass works hard to keep costs low, reflecting careful management and resource allocation. Notably, this has been achieved without any increase in the annual Plant Pass producer fees ($250 + GST) since the scheme’s launch in 2022 – reinforcing our commitment to keeping certification accessible while maintaining credibility.

  Note that costs for the external sector auditors are not included in the Plant Pass producer fee - these are managed directly with the independent auditor.