The current Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry is a descendent of the old Department of Agriculture which was founded back in 1892 from the amalgamation of the Stock and Agriculture Branches of the Department of Crown Lands. Its job back then was to provide farmers with expert scientific advice to improve both the quality and quantity of their production.
On 1 March 1998, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Forestry merged to become the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. In July 1999 saw the Regulatory Authority divided into MAF Food Assurance Authority and MAF Biosecurity Authority.
MAF'S Mission is:
Enhancing New Zealand's Natural Advantage.
Through our purpose: -Leading the protection and sustainable development of our biological resources for all New Zealanders. -The Three Outcomes we are working to achieve are:
Economy: Sustainable economic growth and prosperity for New Zealanders
People: Healthy New Zealanders and a vibrant rural community
Environment: Maintained and Enhanced economic, social and cultural benefits for New Zealanders from the natural environment