A new plan aims to boost Māori economic development.
Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka unveiled the "Going for Growth with Māori | Tōnui Māori" framework, a renewed Government effort to increase Māori contributions to the economy. The three main areas of focus are:
Increasing infrastructure investment to drive employment and sustainable growth, such as investing in a large-scale solar farm capable of supplying over 8,500 homes.
Accelerating Māori business exports by recognizing traditional knowledge in the IP system to protect Māori point of difference and property rights.
Unlocking the growth potential of whenua Māori (Māori land) by making targeted improvements to Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993, including simplifying planning and related processes, encouraging greater development opportunities, and reducing red tape.
To progress this work, a public discussion document has been released for consultation on proposed changes to Te Ture Whenua Maori Act 1993. The consultation closes on May 23, 2025. Māori landowners are encouraged to provide feedback.