From Seaweed to World‑First Innovation: AgriSea’s Big Day in Paeroa AgriSea unveiled the world’s first Commercial Seaweed Nanocellulose Biorefinery in Paeroa—a launch that drew ministers, dignitaries, industry leaders, partners, and plenty of proud whānau. The day had all the makings of a celebration, complete with a rockstar champagne‑bottle moment from Minister Chris Penk. If you [...]
Still hunting for the perfect Christmas gift? Why not make this holiday season extra special by supporting Māori businesses? When you Buy Māori Made, you’re not just giving a present—you’re backing creativity, culture, and community. Māori Magic for Your Gift List - we’ve featured plenty of amazing Māori businesses in previous pānui, here are a [...]
The Regional Business Partner (RBP) Programme helps businesses build capability and prepare for growth. Pakihi Māori can choose to work with Poutama to explore what RBP support may be available for their business. Working with Poutama starts with a kōrero. We take time to understand your business, your goals and challenges, and help identify whether [...]
Innovation support is still here - and Poutama can help you access it! If you’re looking to get a head start on 2026 and accelerate your innovation, there’s good news. The grants and support previously delivered by Callaghan Innovation are now provided through Innovation Services, administered by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE). [...]
Nicole Horan, CEO and producer of Hi Mama Productions, has been named the Te Tohu Aorangi Overall Supreme Winner at the MWDI Māori Businesswomen’s Awards 2025. This highly coveted accolade celebrates outstanding achievements, innovation, and leadership within te ao pakihi Māori. Hi Mama Productions, a trailblazing Māori-owned film and television company, was honoured for its [...]
Ngā mihi nui to all the incredible entrants who poured their heart and soul into their submissions - the entries are a testament to the innovation within the Southern Māori Business Network community. Click here to see all the finalists! The judging panel was impressed by the calibre of entries received for this year’s awards. [...]
Governance Fundamentals is an interactive workshop designed to support future, new and established trustees of Māori Land Trusts and Marae. It focuses on helping participants navigate their governance responsibilities effectively, so that they can lead with confidence and purpose. Description: What participants will learn - · A clear understanding of trustee roles and responsibilities · [...]
Two awesome scholarship kaupapa are open right now, and there is still time to get your applications in. First up, Microsoft is offering one Māori rangatahi a $5,000 pūtea to supercharge their journey in tech or digital. Whether you are studying, training, or already working in the space, this is your chance to take your [...]
KUMA is holding their 20th Anniversary celebrations in Ōtepoti over two days - Friday, 10 October 2025 & Saturday 11, October 2025. The purpose of these celebrations is to recognise the achievements of pakihi Māori and review two decades of accomplishments, innovation, and community spirit. KUMA invites Māori-owned businesses, and organisations supporting pakihi Māori across [...]
Callaghan Innovation will begin winding down as part of the Government changes to the science system, with closure set for June 2026. In the meantime, most of its well-known products and services remain available, delivered by the same expert teams and supported by Poutama. A new section on the Callaghan Innovation website provides up-to-date information [...]
