3 August 1999

Safe Food Campaigner Stands For Greens In Ohariu Belmont

The Green Party tonight selected 37 year old commercial writer Caron Zillwood to stand for Parliament in Ohairu-Belmont.

Ms Zillwood describes her niece and three nephews as the motivating forces behind standing for Parliament. She believes they deserve the right to grow up in a clean, healthy environment - one which provides for safe food and a safe community.

"Our children face growing up with the threat of unsafe water, pesticide-laden food and now the prospect of unknown genetically engineered dangers," said Ms Zillwood. "In choosing a government for 2000 and beyond, we have the opportunity to embrace a healthy, organic future.

"With organic foods the New Zealand economy can gain a competitive edge in world markets which are paying premium prices for GE-free and pesticide-free foods. Only the Green Party has a positive and realistic vision of what New Zealand can and must be for future generations," she said.

Originally from Taradale, Napier, Ms Zillwood has lived in Wellington for nearly 20 years . She is self employed and often works in the not-for-profit sector - particularly in the disability sector. Prior to setting up her own business in 1995 Ms Zillwood was the public relations manager for New Zealand CCS.

Ms Zillwood will be campaigning in Ohairu Belmont for the Party Vote. "Every PartyVote for the Green Party will ensure that Green MPs follow Jeanette Fitzsimons into Parliament and make New Zealand GE Free for our children and grandchildren," she said.

Green Party Co Leader Rod Donald said the Green Party is extremely fortunate to have a candidate with Carons skill and committment. "Caron has already made a major contribution to the Green Party's nationwide campaign strategy, and will be an excellent candidate to communicate the Safe Food Green Party message to Ohairu Belmont voters."

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