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 [...]
John Anderson - Tūhourangi From Rotorua Roots to Regional Recognition In the heart of Rotorua, where geothermal wonders meet rich Māori heritage, a local business is making waves in the construction and electrical industry. Meet John Anderson, the founder of JAM Group, whose journey from solo tradesman to leading a thriving team is as inspiring [...]
ConCOVE Tūhura, Amotai, and Poutama Trust have released research identifying four key growth opportunities for Māori and Pasifika-owned businesses in the construction sector. The report, titled "Future focussed skills: growth opportunities for Māori and Pasifika owned businesses in greener construction”, highlights significant potential for businesses to upskill in emerging technologies including trenchless technologies, Building Information [...]
While the Tōnui Māori plan receives $40.2m a year to focus on addressing longstanding barriers to Māori economic development such as infrastructure gaps, limited export pathways, and restrictive land law. Māori Education gains include STEM and Te Reo initiatives. Better news on the SME front, the “Investment Boost” allows an immediate 20% tax deduction on [...]
A new fund, He Ara Whakahihiko, will open on 20 August 2025 to back Māori-led science and innovation that delivers commercial outcomes. It replaces older funding streams with two targeted options: one for short-term, ready-to-commercialise research (Ara Whaihua), and another for two-year partnerships (Rangapū Rangahau) that build capability and collaboration. Around $2 million is also [...]
From late 2025, Worksafe will shift it's focus from broad enforcement to supporting businesses with practical, risk-based guidance - especially on critical risks that could cause serious harm. With Māori having a 30% higher rate of serious non-fatal injuries in the workplace than non-Māori, this is positive. Expect clearer advice, updated Codes of Practice, and [...]
