Māori boarding schools hold a special place in Aotearoa, cherished for their role in education and their deep connection to Māori culture. For more than 160 years, these schools have shaped and nurtured Māori leaders who continue to make a difference in their communities.
However, the dormitory facilities had reached a point where significant upgrades were urgently needed to ensure students could learn and grow in a safe, healthy environment. It’s so exciting to see these much-needed improvements now coming to life!
On another inspiring note, a solar-powered energy initiative is making a big difference in a Māori community, helping reduce living costs while promoting sustainability. The Kia Whitingia project has installed solar panels on
five marae in Manawatū, generating power for more than 15 homes in the area.
However, the renewable energy sector faces a setback with Solarzero, a major solar energy company, going into liquidation. This has sparked concerns about the stability of the industry and its capacity to meet the increasing demand
for clean energy solutions. Despite this, the resilience of local projects like Kia Whitingia highlights the importance of communityled initiatives in maintaining momentum toward a sustainable future.
New Zealand’s dedication to clean energy is shining brightly, with marae across
the country stepping up to embrace solar technology. This movement is not only helping tackle rising energy costs and power shortages but also showcasing the innovative spirit and leadership within our communities.
We hope you enjoy this issue, and if you have a story to share, we’d love to hear from you!
contents november 2024 14 07 18 21
tania@reviewmags.com
SUPPORTING COMMUNITY INITIATIVES
AS COMMUNITIES are the heart and soul of Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland Council said it was proud to do its bit in supporting community initiatives.
This has been a driving factor why the Council has pushed for Ngā Hapori Momoho / Thriving Communities Grants to open, with a pool of NZD $295,000 available to support community-led projects that help build inclusive and vibrant communities.
Councillor Julie Fairey, Deputy Chair of Auckland Council’s
MĀORI
Community Committee said she has encouraged organisations who want to make a real difference to their community, to apply for this grant.
“We want to support a future where communities can work together and take action on the things they care about,” said Councillor Fairey.
“These grants are for regionally significant groups, services, events and activities that will benefit residents across Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.”
Fairey added that the grants have focussed on increasing
HOUSING PLAN
AN NZD $82 MILLION Government investment into Māori housing providers will benefit many whānau across the country, Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka announced.
Supported by funding administered by Te Tūāpapa Kura Kāinga – Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, 12 Māori housing providers will create a total of 198 whare in areas where there is a high demand for affordable housing. The aim is to start building within the next 12 months.
Nine of the 12 projects are located within the priority locations of Northland, East Coast, Hawkes Bay, Taranaki-Central North Island, Bay of Plenty, including Rotorua and Waikato.
“The others are in Nelson, Taumarunui and Masterton, where the proposed developments demonstrated a significant need for supply and affordable rentals or had a strong focus on exiting whānau from emergency housing and transitional housing,” Potaka said.
All the homes will be affordable rentals where rent is capped at 80 percent of the market rent in a particular location.
“These developments are happening against a backdrop of severe housing deprivation in the regions where they are located and where there is an acute shortage of quality and affordable rental accommodation,” Potaka said.
The Government said the developments are not just about
the ability for Aucklanders to participate fully in the city, enabled by increasing whanau and community financial security, improving health outcomes, and growing community and intercultural connection. She said the Council wanted all to be able to thrive and have a sense of belonging.
“The fund will invest in activities that honour the council’s obligation to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and we really encourage applications for community-led projects that
will benefit Māori.”
Grants of up to $30,000 are available for projects that help support thriving communities, with applications open until Friday 31 January, 2025.
In April 2024 the last funding round was awarded to 13 organisations. These included a transformative music therapy programme, a community connection programme for older Aucklanders with dementia or disability, and an agency that aims to increase inclusive volunteering opportunities.
building houses. Each of the homes has represented a fresh start and a secure foundation for whānau and tamariki to grow, thrive, and stay connected to their whenua in a community where the need for safe, affordable homes has never been more urgent.
“The Government is deeply committed to fixing the housing crisis across New Zealand and addressing housing challenges faced by whānau Māori. While we celebrate this milestone, this is part of a more comprehensive housing pipeline and the Government’s overall plan to alleviate housing shortages across Aotearoa.”
INCREASE IN IMMUNISATION RATES
MINISTER OF HEALTH Dr Shane Reti has praised hauora Māori providers for continuing to lift the delivery of life-saving immunisations across all ages and all populations.
“In the first 10 months of the Immunising our Tamariki programme, hauora Māori providers have now delivered more than 69,000 vaccinations across all population groups, making our children and communities safer,” said Dr Reti.
“In October alone the programme funded more than 5,600 vaccinations including scheduled childhood vaccinations, and vaccinations for influenza, COVID-19 and for pregnant women.”
Those figures were a 5.5 percent increase on September, something that Dr Reti said he was incredibly proud of, and the work continuing to ensure frontline delivery of services.
“Significantly, in the face of the whooping cough outbreak declared last week, 53 percent of these vaccinations in October were for children under 24 months – those most at risk of serious diseases like pertussis and measles.”
Dr Reti added that after years of declining immunisation rates, it was more important than ever to drive targets to ensure youth are protected.
“When we launched this programme in December 2023, I committed to investing NZD $50 million over two years to help key providers lift immunisation rates by connecting with their communities and building trust.”
Almost a year on, Dr Reti was delighted to see that thousands more young children are immunised and protected against diseases
MĀORI COMMITMENT IN OUTCOMES REPORT
TE KAUNIHERA o Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland Council has released its Māori Outcomes Report for 2023/2024, celebrating significant achievements while outlining the council’s ongoing commitment to fostering and supporting Māori identity, culture, and wellbeing throughout Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.
Councillor Kerrin Leoni, Māori Outcomes Portfolio Lead, emphasised the importance of
as a result, but he said there were still many other whānau he wanted to reach. He said that protecting pēpi and tamariki from preventable diseases through immunisation is one of the best ways to set up them up for a healthy future.
“It’s exactly why the Government is investing in making it easier to get kids immunised through well-child tamariki ora services, community pharmacies and outreach programmes led by hauora Māori providers, and also recently bringing on Plunket as vaccinators.”
Reti acknowledged that working through the mid-winter period would have been challenging for immunisation teams, but these sort of initiatives do make a difference.
“We know it will take a collective effort to reach our Government target of 95 per cent of children being fully immunised at 24 months of age. It’s an absolute priority for me.”
this report and celebrated the successes while acknowledging the challenges faced.
“This year, we successfully secured an additional NZD $21 million for Māori outcomes over the next decade, starting in mid2027. This funding will support crucial projects that significantly impact our Māori communities, from environmental initiatives to empowering grassroots Māori businesses and groups.
The Ngā Hapori Momoho
/ Thriving Communities Grants programme has been particularly impactful over the past 12 months – with community-led projects benefiting Māori receiving 32 percent of the funding in the latest round,” said Councillor Leoni.
“While we celebrate these achievements, we must acknowledge that there are challenges that remain. However, despite some setbacks, I hold a strong sense of hope for the future of Tāmaki Makaurau. Our journey towards a more inclusive society demands that we break down barriers and foster genuine collaboration across the organisation and with Māori throughout the region.”
Councillor Richard Hills, Chair of the Policy and Planning Committee emphasised the importance of the report, and the positive impact collective efforts have had on promoting Māori identity and wellbeing.
“The report offers valuable insights into Te Kaunihera o
Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland Council’s commitments to enhancing Māori outcomes, especially for our tamariki and ensuring they see themselves as part of our city. We’ve seen some great successes, like the NZD $150 million Māori Outcomes Fund, which has enabled us to support key projects that are transformative for Māori communities, including enhancing marae infrastructure and backing Māori-led environmental initiatives,” said Councillor Hills.
“There’s more work to be done, but by acknowledging the unique needs and aspirations of iwi, hapū, and mātaawaka group, we can continue to work together to shape a Tāmaki Makaurau that we can all be proud of and move forward with determination and unity.”
This year’s report highlighted the progress made under the council’s strategic framework, Kia Ora Tāmaki Makaurau, which prioritised ten key mana outcomes vital to Māori in Auckland.
Upgrading Facilities to Support Future Leaders
Four Māori boarding schools have officially opened new and upgraded dormitory facilities with the support of government funding, in order to ensure a healthy and safe learning environment for all students.
The schools were allocated NZD $20 million over a twoyear period during Budget 2021, which has served as a way to make necessary improvements. The importance of the role that Māori boarding schools have in growing the future of leaders has also been a driving force in providing the best possible facilities to house and educate students.
The upgraded facilities at St Joseph’s Māori Girls’ College were officially opened by the Minister for Māori Development, Hon Tama Potaka, as well as Te Puni Kōkiri Ikaroa-Rāwhiti Regional Director, George Mackey. Other community members and kaimahi who were involved with the upgrade also attended.
“It’s taken nearly five years to get to this reopening, so there was an immense feeling of satisfaction as we toured the dormitories, seeing the vast improvements that had been made,” said Mackey.
“Reopening the improved dormitories was a significant milestone and one we have all been awaiting because we know the positive impact it will have on students.”
Boarding schools have been an important staple of Māori education. As an institution, they have played an important role in highlighting the significance of growing the next generation of leaders as well as the importance of Maoridom. Boarding schools have also been recognised for fostering rangatahi, quality education and for advocating for Māori and tikanga Māori.
As the second-oldest Māori boarding school, St. Joseph’s has become dedicated to nurturing young wāhine Māori. Throughout its history, notable alumni include Dame Whina Cooper,
Screenwriter Riwia Brown, Musicians
Dame Hinewehi Mohi, Whirimako Black, Moana Maniapoto and Maisey Rika, as well as Linguist and Māori language developer Dame Kāterina Mataira.
St. Joseph’s, as well as Te Aute College, Hato Pāora College and Hukarere Girl’s College, are Special Character StateIntegrated Schools, whose whakapapa have blended tikanga Māori and religious values.
Whanaungatanga, Māoritanga, religious values and academic excellence are key focuses of education at St Joseph’s. Mackey said that the new dormitory upgrades had provided a safe and healthy environment for the young leaders of
tomorrow to learn and thrive in.
Te Puni Kōkiri stated that the young wāhine Māori learning at St Joseph’s are all important to the future success of Māori, to their whānau, their community, their hapū, iwi, and Aotearoa New Zealand.
There is a young and rapidly-growing Māori population in New Zealand. By 2033, Māori will make up over 18.3 percent of the working-age population. Many have noted the importance of investing in education now, as there will be broader opportunities for their future.
Minister Potaka also acknowledged the significant role St Joseph’s teachers, sisters, and wider team play in the lives of
Reopening the improved dormitories was a significant milestone and one we have all been awaiting because we know the positive impact it will have on students.
the young wāhine at the school. Special recognition was given to Dame Georgina Kingi for her long service at St Joseph’s as a teacher and then principal. Dame Kingi was awarded Companion of the Queen’s Service in 2004 and in 2017 was made a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori and education.
Pākehā Project Encouraging Others
The Pākehā Project has emerged as a collaborative effort for more to embrace Māori culture and Te Reo throughout the country.
Its co-founder, Honorary Research Fellow at Toi Rauwhārangi College of Creative Arts at Massey University, Rebecca Sinclair, said there was a recognised need for Pākehā to engage meaningfully with te ao Māori.
The Pākehā Project has sought to explore what it means for Pākehā to fulfil their role in a Treaty-based, Tiritiled Aotearoa, as well as emphasise the distinction between Māori-led responsibilities and the unique work required of non-Māori.
Sinclair and her colleague Louise Marra and Pacific leadership educator Karlo Mila noted the challenges faced by Pacific leaders in bringing cultural wisdom into mainly Pākehā institutions. She added that there were many who were unprepared for it. Sinclair then had the realisation that through perspectives and practices, she and Marra could develop the project.
The project has since helped Pākehā understand their identity, history and
responsibility in a way that was authentic and respectful.
At its core, the Pākehā Project has encouraged engagement with Māori confidently and relationally, without the fear of making mistakes. Fostering an understanding for whakapapa and a connection to land and spirituality has been integral to the programme. It has also highlighted the importance of participants reconnecting with their own cultural identity, which has shifted from restraint caused by fear of “getting it wrong.”
A holistic approach has been used to combine historical and theoretical knowledge with embodied practices. Sinclair said that the workshops have been designed to reflect internal work, and has explored personal biases and cultural perspectives of governance. It has also included workshops focused on external understandings, such as Te Tiriti o Waitangi and worldview. This has
PHOTO CREDIT: The Pākehā Project
allowed project participants to engage on a intellectual and emotional level, as well as gain a range of tools and practices.
The project’s five-month leadership programme has included retreats, online learning, and in-person wānanga. So far, three cohorts, with over 50 graduates, have participated, with shorter workshops focussed on organisations. These shorter classes have been designed with foundational concepts, and have created a safe environment for participants to express their fears, questions, and understandings.
Both Māori and Pākehā have said the project was a positive bridge between both cultures. Māori leaders like Veronica Tawhai have also expressed support, and have recognised the value of Pākehā doing their own work to step into the space authentically.
Sinclair said that the project has explicitly worked with an understanding of the emotional responses that can come up when exploring content that challenges the sense of self, and to help people work through their fears about what tino rangatiratanga could mean for them.
The Pākehā Project has approached these concerns with compassion, recognising that such resistance stems from deeply ingrained cultural systems rather than individual failings.
Cultural humility and relational approaches have become a standout element of the project, with an emphasis
on creating supportive environments. Participants have also been encouraged to foster genuine curiosity and growth.
Although named the Pākehā Project, its work has extended to all Tangata Tiriti. People of various cultural backgrounds and even some tangata whenua, have joined the project to further their understanding and education. The project has sat alongside other initiatives, like Asians Supporting Tino Rangatiratanga, which has explored cultural perspectives between nationalities in the interest of a shared vision of the future.
Looking ahead, the Pākehā Project has envisioned more Pākehā embracing the values of Te Ao Māori, not as an external
obligation but as an integral part of their identity and societal contribution. They believe this cultural shift will help address the disconnect and lack of values often perceived in current governance and systems.
Sinclair said the project has committed to expanding its reach, fostering a sense of community among participants, and nurturing a future where all people in Aotearoa can share the vision of equality. While acknowledging that some may resist these changes, Sinclair said the project had emphasised empathy and engagement, and she believed that transformative learning begins with compassion and connection.
Call for Māori Nurse Support
Student nurses have called for more support for Māori nurses to grow their workforce in Aotearoa.
Speaking from the Indigenous Nurses Aotearoa Conference in Auckland, New Zealand Nurses Organisation Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa (NZNO) earlier in the year, National Student Unit Coleaders, Stacey Wharewera and Shannyn Bristowe, argued that more should be put in place to ensure the future of Māori nurses in the workforce.
Wharewera said there was a real fear at the uncertainly currently facing student nurses around employment at the end of their studies with many facing the prospect of not being offered placement by Te Whatu Ora and being forced to look overseas for jobs.
“I know of a number of Māori graduates who have not been offered jobs in Aotearoa who are now planning to go to Australia. This is a real threat to the future of our
Māori workforce,” said Wharewera.
Wharewera said the loss of these nurses overseas is a loss to both our health system and to Māori communities of the culturally appropriate care provided by Māori nurses. She added that Māori have much better health outcomes when they receive care that is culturally safe and suitable for them, and that Māori nurses were critical to improving equity and outcomes for Māori.
“Te Whatua Ora has repeatedly talked about the importance of growing the Māori nursing workforce but the percentage in the workforce has remained at around seven percent since 2007. More needs to be done to prioritise building a Māori workforce. Forcing Māori new graduates to work abroad goes directly against this rhetoric.”
Wharewera said there were a number
of measures the Government could do to encourage more Māori to study nursing and graduates to stay. By the third year of study, 33 percent of Māori students have dropped out – mainly due to financial hardship. Funded free training and having work placements paid would significantly reduce dropout figures.
“Having confidence you will be employed at the end of your studies is critical. Te Whatu Ora must commit to securing positions for new graduates. Pay parity across the health sector would also help to address significant pay disparities between those working within Māori and iwi/hapū providers, and those employed within Te Whatua Ora,” Wharewera said.
NZNO Kaiwhakahaere Kerri Nuku said there were some exceptional young Māori who are currently studying to be nurses.
“Stacey and Shannyn are great examples of the future of Māori nursing. We need to ensure their future is here and their talents are not lost overseas,” Nuku said.
Māori Nurses Assemble for 2024 Hui
The National Māori Nurses Hui 2024, hosted by Te Tai Tokerau rohe and Muriwhenua representatives at Te Uri o Hina Marae in Pukepoto brought together medical professionals from across the country in early November.
One-hundred-and-five neehi Māori (nurses) and members of Te Kaunihera o Ngā Neehi Māori (The National Council of Māori Nurses) were able to come together to connect, inspire and aspire as a workforce for the second annual assembly of this special event.
Inclusive of neehi Māori from all
sectors of health, including nurse practitioners, research nurses, nurse leaders and educators, the hui showcased and celebrated the unity of Māori nurses and the profession.
Dr Rachel Brown. Chief Executive of the National Hauora Coalition, said that just seven percent of the total nursing workforce in Aotearoa are Māori, compared to 15 percent of the New Zealand population.
“Equitable representation is a critical factor for achieving positive health and wellbeing outcomes for whānau – this year’s National Māori Nurses Hui will play an essential role in finding solutions to increase the Māori nurse workforce,” said Brown.
The theme for the 2024 hui wass ‘Te Mana ō Nga Whānau Tāpuhi – to uphold the values of whānau nursing,’ which focused on the powerful influence
of whānau on people’s nursing journeys. It demonstrated the commitment of Māori nurses to inspire and support future generations to enter the profession.
“Our Māori nurses are taonga – as the largest part of the healthcare workforce in Aotearoa, they are the backbone of our system,” said Brown.
“It is more important than ever for our Māori nurses to come together to celebrate the progress made to date, and collectively aspire to a better future for whānau.”
Continuing the success of the inaugural event, this year’s hui was said to be three days of inspiration, learning and whanaungatanga amongst neehi Māori, according to the President of Te Kaunihera o Ngā Neehi Māori o Aotearoa, Jo Marino (Ngāti Porou, Te Arawa, Ngāti Manawa, Tūhoe, Tūwharetoa).
“This hui is an opportunity for kotahitanga, where Māori nurses can gather, refill our wairua cups and then return to mahi feeling replenished,” she said.
“I look forward to connecting and sharing in everyone’s journeys throughout the duration of the hui. It’s such an important celebration of our fellow Māori nurses.”
Sharing the Spirit
Reefton Distilling Co. has collaborated with Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Waewae with the sacred connection of Pounamu and the spirit of the West Coast.
Patsy Bass, Founder and Chief Executive of Reefton Distilling Co., the producers of international award-winning Little Biddy Gin, and Francois Tumahai, Chair of Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Waewae, have come together to honour the land, the people and the traditions of Te Tai Poutini/the West Coast.
Deep at the heart of this connection is Pounamu, a taonga/treasure of Ngāti Waewae, the smallest hapu of Ngāi Tahu, comprising about 6000 people who have whakapapa to the tīpuna of Te Tai Poutini.
Ngāti Waewae has gifted treasured pieces of their Pounamu to Reefton Distilling Co. to sit in a specially commissioned filter, which all water used to make Little Biddy Gin and Moonlight Creek Whisky, will touch.
These world-class spirits will now carry the wairua/ spirit of the West Coast to the World.
Both Ngāti Waewae and Reefton Distilling Co. share an affinity with the mountains, rivers and waterways of Te Tai Poutini, they also share a deep respect for the people who call this special place home.
Ngāti Waewae are mana whenua and are active leaders within the wider West Coast community, with representation on each of the four West Coast councils and numerous boards. They are also proactive in creating employment and educational opportunities for their people, with a particular focus on youth.
Reefton Distilling Co. Founder and Chief Executive, Patsy Bass, also believes in an intergenerational perspective, which was embedded in her thinking during her 7 years working at Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu.
Bass spoke of how the distillery has had a positive impact on the local economy,
helping to attract new people to the region, and providing jobs for the next generation, so that they might stay there and raise their own families, contributing to the community and vibrancy of the region.
Bass said that she feels fortunate to have learned first-hand of the significance of Pounamu. Her daughter and granddaughter are Ngāi Tahu, and as a proud ‘Coaster’, Bass had imagined filtering the pristine water used in the production of Little Biddy Gin and Moonlight Creek Whisky over Pounamu, so that it would carry the very essence of the West Coast in every sip.
In recognition of Reefton Distilling Co.’s positive impact on Te Tai Poutini, Ngāti Waewae has gifted treasured Pounamu from the Arahura River.
Ngāti Waewae have also gifted the distillery a magnificent, large Pounamu touchstone, which was sourced from Toaroha, a river which flows from high in the Southern Alps, into the Hokitika River. This will soon be installed at Reefton Distilling Co.’s visitor centre in Reefton. As visitors to the distillery touch the stone and smooth it over generations, they will leave a little of themselves in the history of this iconic business.
“The gifting of Pounamu to Reefton Distilling Co. is a recognition of the ethos of the company and its commitment to its place here in Te Tai Poutini,” said Ngāti Waewae Chairman Francois Tumahai.
“The betterment of the lives of our young people is also a strong value that we each share.”
With pristine West Coast water filtered over revered Pounamu, each drop of Reefton Distilling Co.’s premium spirits will now carry the wairua/spirit of this remarkable region. Filtered beneath the mountains and through the lush rainforest for thousands of years, and imbued with the cultural significance of one of Aotearoa’s most sacred treasures.
This connection between spirit and tradition makes each bottle a true celebration of the West Coast’s rich heritage and untamed natural wilderness. Capturing the spirit of the land, the culture, and the heritage.
Sustainable Design Focus
Auckland-based startup company, Critical Design, has become dedicated to transforming how interiors would look with innovative products made from compressed recycled plastic. Rui Peng, the CEO of Critical Design, said laminated surfaces have long been a common fixture for interior fit-outs worldwide.
However, the issue arises when these surfaces are damaged or broken, often resulting often resulting in a complicated and costly repair. Recognising this challenge, Critical Design began the innovative process to transform old desk frames with their revolutionary Cleanstone panels, built from compressed recycled plastic. Under the leadership of Peng, Critical Design has aimed to provide a sustainable alternative to traditional laminated surfaces. The Cleanstone panels offer unparalleled durability and longevity thanks to their moisture-free composition. Unlike laminated surfaces, which can be challenging to repair, the Cleanstone panels can be easily sanded and polished when marked or damaged, ensuring a cost-effective and efficient solution.
What sets Cleanstone panels apart is their versatility in design and customisation. Critical Design has offered various colour options, allowing each panel to be tailored to the client’s preference. Every panel is crafted from various recycled plastics, such as
bubble wrap, plastic bags, piping, and netting, which has offered diverse design possibilities that help combat the carbon emissions associated with plastic waste.
Environmental sustainability is at the heart of Critical Design’s mission. The company has committed to making a lasting positive change by utilising sustainable technology with minimal environmental impact. The Cleanstone panels are just one aspect of its commitment.
Critical Design has shipped these panels worldwide, extending their influence beyond the local market. The company has also established a system to buy back panels in end-of-life condition, ensuring they can be repurposed into new products rather than ending up in landfills.
In addition to its environmental focus, Critical Design has provided a 20-year lifetime warranty for the Cleanstone panels, underscoring its confidence in its durability. This commitment to quality and longevity has highlighted the need to invest in sustainable and reliable solutions.
Peng explained that Critical Design’s
vision has extended beyond desk refurbishment. The ultimate ambition has been to eliminate the dumping of plastics in landfills, making way for a future where sustainability is the norm. By leading the way with Cleanstone panels and the dedication to ongoing improvements, Critical Design has shaped the future of sustainable design, benefitting both people and the planet. The Cleanstone panels by Critical Design represent a significant step forward in sustainability. With its durability, customisable design options, and unwavering commitment to the environment, these panels offer a compelling solution and an eco-friendly alternative.
Reserve Bank Support Māori Opportunites
New Zealand needs a system-wide approach to improving Māori access to capital to unlock economic potential, Reserve Bank of New Zealand - Te Pūtea Matua Governor Adrian Orr has stated.
Governor Orr discussed the recognition across the financial system that more needs to be done to enable Māori access to capital and participation in investment opportunities.
“Improving Māori access to capital is a powerful enabler we all need to collectively prioritise,” Orr said.
With Māori projected to make up 20 percent of New Zealand’s labour force by 2040, the Governor reaffirmed the commitment of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand to ensuring that the financial system is inclusive.
“We will continue to highlight the importance of collaboration and the need
to focus on improving Māori access to capital,” Orr said.
The Governor acknowledged recent progress made across the financial system, reflecting on the efforts from iwi, the private and public sector, and within Te Pūtea Matua.
Orr added that, despite the work that has already happened in this space, there were signs that more effort was needed. He hoped that equity funding does more to improve Māori access to capital and unlock investment opportunities and choices to provide real benefits to all of Aotearoa.
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand - Te Pūtea Matua has also released key
findings from its 2024 Reverse Stress Test, alongside an assessment of how geopolitical tensions could impact financial stability in New Zealand.
The findings are pre-released from our upcoming Financial Stability Report and highlight the importance of proactive risk evaluation and management to safeguarding New Zealand’s financial stability.
The Reverse Stress test asked participating banks to model severe but plausible scenarios that could cause their capital levels to fall below the regulatory minimums. The scenarios banks used featured severe recessions, with significant increases in unemployment and falls in property prices. Several banks identified escalation of geopolitical tension as the primary driver of economic downturns. Scenarios were often accompanied by secondary shocks, such as cyber-related events or insurance retreat.
Banks also identified actions they could take in response to the scenarios to rebuild their capital positions. Responses included reducing dividends, cutting costs, tightening lending standards, repricing and extending loan terms for existing customers.
“The Reverse Stress test prompted banks to explore severe scenarios that threatened their businesses and identify how they might respond. The exercise has improved our understanding of the
potential vulnerabilities of the financial system. It has also been a valuable exercise for testing and enhancing industry’s risk management capabilities,” Director of Financial Stability Assessment and Strategy Kerry Watt said.
An important part of Te Pūtea Matua’s financial stability work is promoting public understanding of risks. This stresstesting exercise highlighted geopolitical risks as material for New Zealand. These risks arise from international tensions and can impact the financial system through various channels.
Geopolitical risk can disrupt international trade, weaken domestic demand and lead to financial market volatility. This in turn can lead to higher loan defaults, raise funding costs, and increase cyber risks for financial institutions. The nature of the impact will depend on the transmission channel, severity and location of the geopolitical shock.
“Concern about geopolitical tension has been increasing recently. As a small open economy, dependent on international trade and investment, geopolitical risks are clearly relevant to our financial system. Their potential impacts cannot be underestimated,” Watt said.
“We must be aware of these risks and be prepared to manage them to ensure the stability of the financial system.”
Puku Ora Reign Supreme
Puku Ora, co-founded by Erana Ngaruku and Amy Wray, has been honoured with the Tohu Aorangi – Māori Businesswomen’s Supreme Overall Award at the MWDI Māori Businesswomen’s Awards 2024. This prestigious accolade celebrates exceptional achievement, innovation, and leadership within te ao pakihi Māori (the Māori business community).
The MWDI Māori Businesswomen’s Awards, hosted annually by Māori Women’s Development Inc. (MWDI), have recognised the resilience, creativity, and dedication of Māori women in business. These awards highlighted the remarkable contributions of wāhine Māori entrepreneurs and professionals across diverse sectors throughout Aotearoa, the Asia-Pacific region, and beyond.
Puku Ora’s mission has centered on the belief that a healthy puku is essential for optimal wellness, supporting strong immunity, mental clarity, and overall vitality through nurturing gut health. Its approach has been rooted in the principles
of Te Whare Tapa Whā, focusing on balance across mental, physical, spiritual, and whānau (family) well-being.
From its vibrant eatery and catering services to holistic wellness products, educational initiatives, and collaborative workspaces, Puku Ora has served the community through a comprehensive range of wellness offerings. Its Kai Kura program, which has addressed food insecurity, ensures that thousands of tamariki (children) receive nutritious lunches every day.
“Starting this business five years ago wasn’t easy, and it’s come with its challenges. But seeing the impact we’re making—preparing 2,800 lunches daily for tamariki (children) in our communities,
running our eatery, and providing wellness services—makes it all worth it. I feel incredibly proud to be Māori and love seeing wāhine Māori thrive in this space,” said Wray.
Puku Ora has invited the community to join them in its holistic health journey through a range of products, programs, and initiatives.
These awards align with the mission of Māori Women’s Development Inc., which has strived to drive economic development for wāhine and their whānau, ensuring Māori contribute equitably to cultural, spiritual, economic, social, and political achievements. MWDI, a unique indigenous organisation, has championed Māori women in
business and showcases the exceptional contributions of wāhine entrepreneurs across Aotearoa, the Asia-Pacific, and global indigenous economies.
Linda Clay, MWDI Kaiwhakahaere (Ngāti Pukeko, Te Whakatōhea), reflected on the evening’s significance.
“This event is about more than recognising achievements; it’s about celebrating the resilience, strength, and innovation of wāhine Māori amidst a dynamic economic landscape. It reaffirms the vital role wāhine Māori play in shaping Aotearoa’s economy. We extend our gratitude to all our sponsors and Te Puni Kōkiri for their support in promoting shared values and a thriving Māori economy.”
PHOTO CREDIT: Puku Ora
Fast-Track Highlights Māori Development
Projects referred for FastTrack approval will help supercharge the Māori economy and realise the huge potential of Iwi and Māori assets, Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka said.
Following robust and independent review, last month the Government announced 149 significant projects that have predominant regional or national benefits to be included in the one-stopshop Fast-Track Approvals Bill when it is reported back to Parliament.
“It’s great to see at least 15 significant Iwi-led or partnered projects among those spanning a variety of industries that will help rebuild the economy, boost renewable energy, grow infrastructure, develop aquaculture and mining, and build homes to fix the housing crisis,” Potaka said.
Potaka added that this announcement reflected the increasing diversification of Iwi and Māori interests.
While there are housing developments proposed across the motu, including the Tainui Group Holdings Ruakura Tūmata development in Hamilton, there are also marine farms by Te Aupouri Fisheries Management Limited and Ngāi Tahu, and a solar farm by the Tauhara North No.2 Trust.
“Various projects are located in rōhe where Māori are a substantial number of the local population,” Potaka said.
“Projects will make a big difference in the regions by offering valuable training,
employment and business growth opportunities, and creating a pipeline of major projects to boost the economy. I expect Māori-owned SMEs to also benefit from increased economic activity and localised procurement.”
Potaka said Iwi and Māori businesses have made increasingly significant contributions to the economy. Enabling the use and growth of Iwi and Māori assets is essential as work is done towards closing the economic delta between Māori and the rest of New Zealand.
“The seven aquaculture and farming projects, for example, can strengthen partnerships with Iwi to boost Māori
development with an expected output of up to 143,000 tonnes per annum,” he added.
“We’re creating the right conditions for boosting Māori economic growth that will fire-up Aotearoa New Zealand to be a small leading advanced nation with greater equality of opportunity. This will support stronger whānau and stronger communities.”
Aquaculture Settlement Development
Five new Aquaculture Settlement Areas will help ensure Ngāi Tahu shares in the opportunities aquaculture offers for Southland’s economy, according to Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones.
“The Aquaculture Settlement Areas (ASAs) has set aside space so the Crown and Ngāi Tahu can assess their potential for aquaculture development. They make up a collective 8787ha and include areas suitable for salmon, mussel, and seaweed farming,” Jones said.
They are offshore from Port Pegasus, Rarotoka South, Rarotoka North, Ruapuke, and Port Adventure.
“The Coalition Government has
recognised aquaculture’s enormous potential and made its development a priority. We’ve set an ambitious goal for aquaculture in New Zealand, aiming for it to be a NZD $3 billion industry by 2035.”
Jones added that there is demand internationally for New Zealand’s aquaculture products and he is committed to maximising its growth.
“That means cutting away red tape and roadblocks so the industry can better contribute to our export-led recovery and the rebuilding of New Zealand’s economy. Making space for this kind of exploration with Ngāi Tahu will bring the certainty needed for jobs, opportunities and export dollars tomorrow.”
All current fishing within the Aquaculture Settlement Areas, whether recreational, commercial or customary, will be allowed to continue while this exploration takes place.
“Any space Ngāi Tahu wants to take forward and develop into aquaculture ventures will still be subject to the resource consent process,” Jones added.
Aquaculture Settlement Areas were established in 2004 as part of legislation that delivers iwi 20 percent of new aquaculture space created and forecasted.
The Coalition Government is also backing the development of an
aquaculture centre of excellence in Southland with an investment of NZD $2.2 million.
South Island Industrial Fund Ltd will use the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) loan towards its NZD $6.3m project to upgrade infrastructure at the Ocean Beach site near Bluff. The upgrades will enable expansion to take place at the site.
Ocean Beach, the site of a former freezing works, has aimed to increase its shared services for more businesses, expand its farming pods, build training
and research facilities, accommodation for the workforce and tourism facilities.
“When fully operational, Ocean Beach will provide emerging aquaculture businesses with the infrastructure they need to produce, distribute and export their products, teach the skills needed in the sector and provide a place to invest in aquaculture,” Jones added.
“Ocean Beach is the gateway to Bluff. Its clear waters, cool climate, and thousands of kilometres of coastline will help make it a world-class aquaculture
centre of excellence and the largest of its kind in New Zealand.”
Jones said that this project had met the strict criteria the Government had put in place for the RIF through its focus on enabling infrastructure.
“The summits have been invaluable for getting conversations going about regional priorities, leveraging investments and strategies and finding out where our priorities align so we can work together to maximise our investments for the good of a region.”
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product&equipment
Equipment and product upgrades are essential to operating a marae. Although refurbishment has been a main focus for marae up and down the country, smaller investments can often be overlooked.
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Time to throw in the tea towel
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Spend less time laundering tea towels or rental cloths and more time on food preparation
Protect hands as cloths withstand temperatures of up to 250˚C when used correctly
