4.1 Conversion

4.1.1 The principles set out in this Section must normally have been applied on the parcels of land during a conversion period of at least two years before sowing or, in the case of perennial plants other than grassland, at least three years before the first harvest of products as referred to in paragraph 1.1(a), Section 1. The TPA may, with NZFSA approval, decide, in certain cases, to extend or reduce that period having regard to previous parcel use but the period must equal or exceed 12 months prior to the start of the production cycle in the case of plant products from annual production. In the case of perennials (excluding pastures and meadows) a period of at least 18 months prior to harvest shall be required.  The reduction in the conversion period must take account of the following points:

- the parcels were already converted or were undergoing conversion to organic farming; and
- the degradation of the plant protection product concerned must result in a level of residue in the soil, and in the plant where the plant is a perennial, which is undetectable using current methods
- Products of the harvest following treatment are not eligible for certification under the official organic assurance programme
- In case of newly developed fields or fields not farmed for no less than two years, NZFSA may appropriately reduce the conversion period only after careful consideration, provided that AgriQuality confirms that prohibited substances have not been applied to those fields for two years.

4.1.2 Whatever the length of the conversion period, it may only begin once a production unit has been placed under an inspection system and once the unit has started the implementation of the production rules in this Standard.

4.1.3 In cases where a whole farm is not converted at one time, it may be done progressively whereby this Standard is applied from the start of conversion on the relevant land parcels.  Conversion from conventional to organic production should be effected using permitted techniques as defined in this Standard.  In cases where a whole farm is not converted at the same time, the holding must be split into units as referred to in Section 9.

4.1.4 Areas in conversion as well as areas converted to organic production must not be alternated (switched back and forth) between organic and conventional production methods.