Concerned locals gathered in Tauranga's Mid-City Mall on Saturday to join a worldwide March Against Monsanto protest.
The international protest called for the permanent boycott of genetically modified organisms and what are regarded as harmful agro-chemicals.
Monsanto is an agricultural company with 404 facilities in 66 countries, producing agricultural and vegetable seeds, plant biotechnology traits and crop protection chemicals.
About 20 people assembled on The Strand at noon before marching with signs and chanting: "Say no to GMO. Stop Monsanto."
Protest organiser Marty Stewart, who also hosted a Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement protest in March this year, said the gathering was a way to raise awareness of the issue of genetically engineered food.