Maori set economic agenda for Manawatu-Whanganui

Seafood, honey, tourism, forestry, and digital and social enterprise have been identified as opportuntities for Maori economic development in the Manawatu-Whanganui region.

That's according to a strategy document, Te Pae Tawhiti, launched in Ohakune today by Maori Development Minister Te Ururoa Flavell.

The government's regional growth study released last year highlighted emerging opportunities in fields such as tourism, aged care and business outsourcing, as well as building on the region's existing strengths in the primary sector.

Business leaders, councils and iwi used that to develop a regional action plan, Accelerate25, which was released in August, with Te Pae Tawhiti added to address the significant and growing Maori economy.

Sir Mason Durie, who sat on both the Maori Economic Strategy Group and the Accelerate25 lead team, says it reflects the vision of iwi, hapu and whanau for a future where economic growth can be realised as a conduit to the sustainability and wellbeing of whanau, lands, waterways, marae, language and future generations.

He says alliances need to be formed so enterprises can share services and benefit from economies of scale.

Maori account for more than one in five of the region's population, so helping to realise Maori potential is a crucial part of growing its prosperity.

More information is available on the Accelerate25 website: www.accelerate25.co.nz

Follow us on &
 

Copyright © 2016, UMA Broadcasting Ltd: www.waateanews.com

RELATED NEWS

Orakei hearing to share Maori abuse survivor stories Greens fumble on seabed mining VIDEO PICK: Ihi – Jah Guide Me