March 30, 2026

#matauranga: Government Invests $5.95 Million in Māori-Led Science Partnerships

Matthew Tukaki Posted On March 30, 2026

The Government is investing nearly $6 million into 17 new science programmes aimed at strengthening partnerships between Māori organisations and research providers.

The funding, delivered through the He Ara Whakahihiko Capability Fund Rangapū Rangahau stream, is focused on building capability, growing the Māori economy, and supporting environmental outcomes through co-developed research.

Each of the selected projects will receive $350,000 over two years, following strong interest in the fund, which attracted more than 100 proposals from across the science, innovation and technology sector.

Director of Māori Science, Innovation and Technology Dr Willy-John Martin says the initiative is designed to deepen connections between the Māori economy and the wider science system, while supporting the development of skills and long-term outcomes.

The funded programmes span a range of sectors, including tourism, environmental protection and advanced materials.

One project will see the New Zealand Institute for Earth Science working alongside Māori tourism operators, including Whale Watch Kaikōura, to develop artificial intelligence tools that translate environmental and weather data into practical business insights.

Another initiative, led by Te Rūnanga o Te Rarawa in partnership with the University of Otago, is focused on developing a rapid diagnostic tool for kauri dieback, aimed at supporting kaitiaki and frontline practitioners to detect and respond to the disease more quickly.

In the Waikato, researchers are working with Muka Innovations and iwi partners to create new mechanical processing techniques for harakeke, with the goal of producing high-quality textile fibres while supporting sustainable cultivation and Māori-led economic opportunities.

The Rangapū Rangahau fund is the second stream of the He Ara Whakahihiko Capability Fund, first announced in 2025. It follows the earlier Ara Whaihua funding round, which supported projects with strong pathways to commercialisation and economic growth.

The latest round is being positioned as part of a broader effort to grow Māori participation in science and innovation, while breaking down barriers within the research system and delivering tangible benefits for communities.

A full list of funded projects is available on the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment website.