Leading Maori Businesspeople Front Economic Sustainability Forum
Leading Maori entrepreneurs and business people feature at a three-day economic sustainability forum from tonight in
Henderson as part of Auckland’s regional Matariki Festival.
Nga Korero Tataki takes place at the Waitakere City Council Chambers from 12-14 July and organisers hope to stimulate
debate about sustainable Maori economic development discussing areas of entrepreneurship, successful Maori business and
treaty settlements and the role they play in the new economy.
“This symposium will present both traditional and contemporary views on the issue of business sustainability and
showcase the talented and successful people who have become the innovators and leaders in business,” says Waitakere City
Council’s Māori relationships manager Rewi Spraggon.
“We are thrilled with the calibre of people we have speaking at this year's symposium as they come from a wide range of
backgrounds and business experiences so there is sure to be some stimulating debate.
“It’s about looking to the future and the issues affecting Māori in an ever-changing political and economic climate,”
adds Mr Spraggon.
The forum begins tonight looking at Nga Tangata Whairawa – Entrepreneurship and will consider ways to accelerate Maori
creative development with speakers including Tu Mai Media managing director Ata Te Kanawa, Oyster Entertainment founder
Duane Wichman-Evans, and Maori educator Ella Henry and hosted by Annabelle Lee-Harris.
The second evening of the forum tomorrow night focuses on Nga Mana Pakihi Maori – Successful Maori Businesses. Hosted by
Dale Husband, speakers Matene Love of clothing label Kia Kaha, Wakatu Incorporation general manager Ropata Taylor and
businesswoman Aroha Campbell will discuss creating generational wealth.
The forum closes on Wednesday 14 July with Ki tua o te Karauna – Moving Beyond the Crown which focuses on treaty
settlements and whether they are the beginning to a new economy. Annette Sykes hosts the evening with speakers former
Ngai Tahu chief executive and Maori Television Service director Tahu Potiki, Maori economic development specialist June
McCabe and iwi advisor Te Warena Taua.
Nga Korero Tataki is at Waitakere City Council Chambers, Henderson from 12-14 July from 7pm each night as part of
Matariki Festival 10. Entry is by koha and each night will also feature entertainment. For more information visit www.matarikifestival.org.nz
ENDS