Go Vegan

Our broken food systems are upheld by the demand for animal products – we can change that by choosing compassion.

So, what does vegan mean?

Veganism is a philosophy and way of living that aims to avoid animal exploitation wherever possible. For many people, that starts with food – choosing meals free from meat, dairy, eggs, and other animal products. Veganism goes beyond what’s on our plates. It also means avoiding products and activities that exploit animals, such as leather, wool, animal testing, and animal entertainment, wherever practical alternatives exist.

SAFE is a vegan organisation, and all of our team members are passionate about this ethos. That’s why we’ve put together ‘Go Vegan’ – our guide to plant-based eating and living a vegan lifestyle. Together, we’re transforming systems that exploit animals, people and the planet.

Why does veganism matter?

Chickens bred for meat suffer in factory farms across New Zealand

It protects animals

The scale of suffering faced by animals, particularly farmed animals, is immense. Choosing to eat a plant-based, vegan diet is the best way to create a kinder Aotearoa for animals. Every meal is a chance to put our values into action.

Woman eats plant based food in New Zealand

It's good for your health

A wholefood, plant-based diet is the perfect recipe for a long and healthy life. Discover how nutritious, rewarding and delicious it can be to nourish your body with nutrient-dense plant foods.

It's good for the planet

A science based dietary pattern designed to promote human health, end animal suffering and protect the planet, linking what we eat with how we sustain the earth.

The planetary health diet is primarily focused on plant based foods. A sustainable way to feed 10 billion people 11 million lives saved annually More plants, healthier futures.

Source: EAT-Lancet (2025)

Try plant-based

Veganism goes beyond the food that we eat, being a broader ethical philosophy that seeks to avoid animal exploitation wherever possible. Plant-based eating, on the other hand, is usually focused primarily on food choices. Keeping animals off your plate is an excellent way to reduce the demand for animal products, which makes a positive difference for animals, your health, and the planet. 

Try dairy free

Not quite ready to try plant-based? Dip your toes in with our Dairy-Free Challenge!

Our Dairy-Free Challenge will help you with tips on the best plant-based cheeses or ice cream, and if you’re on the lookout for new dairy-free recipe ideas, we’ve got you covered.