Jim Kebbell (1938–2026)

An early and great pioneer of organics who made a huge contribution to the movement has passed.

Kua hinga te totara i Te Waonui-a-Tāne. A tōtara has fallen.

Many of you will know Jim, who was a friend to many, and who died last Tuesday evening (the 13th). He was deeply involved in the organic movement for about 50 years, and when we talk about Jim, it is hard not to include his wife, Marion Wood, as they were true partners in life.

Jim was from a farming family and chose a path early on as a Catholic priest. Somewhere along the way, he became socially active and, in the days when our electoral system was a First Past the Post system, the socially concerned and active gathered around the Labour Party and Jim, like ministers from other denominations, was a Labour Party organiser.

In 1975, a group of like-minded people bought a property at Te Horo, naming it Common Property, and began farming it organically, influenced by Marion’s mother. Those working the farm were young and marginalised, needing work and a way off the streets of Wellington. Looking for an outlet for the produce they were growing, Jim and Marion started Commonsense in Wellington in 1991, which has since grown to become the pre-eminent chain of organic stores in Wellington and Auckland. The social and environmental values that underpinned Commonsense were also the basis for Jim and Marion being awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Sustainable Business in 2021.

Jim was involved in many organisations around organics, a life member of the BioGro Society and, leading up to its merger with Soil and Health, he contributed to its survival and growth at a critical early stage. He served a period as Chair of the Organic Traders Association, where he was also a co-founder. It was not just the positions he held, but his enthusiasm, humour, and yes, common sense, in various difficult situations that Jim brought.

We remember Jim affectionately for his humanness and well-founded social views, and for being a huge supporter of OANZ who actively encouraged us onward.

Share Your Memories of Jim

Jim touched the lives of so many in the organic community and beyond, and we would love to hear your stories. Whether it’s a moment of humour, a lesson he taught you, or a memory of working alongside him, your reflections will help us celebrate his life and the incredible legacy he leaves behind.

Please use the comment box below to share your memories, anecdotes, or condolences about Jim. Every message helps us remember the man who was not only a pioneer of organics but a friend, mentor, and inspiration to so many.

Jim Kebbell (1938–2026): A Tōtara Has Fallen.