Tēnā koutou katoa,

Nau mai, haere mai ki te Pānui o Poutama – your monthly dose of inspo, insight, and Māori business magic!

Last month we acknowledged the passing of Ariki Tā Tumu Te Heuheu Tūkino VIII – a rangatira of quiet strength and immense mana.  His legacy as kaitiaki of his people, whenua, and wai, including Tongariro and Taupō-nui-a-Tia, will endure for generations.  With deep aroha and respect we pay tribute to his fierce yet humble leadership.

Oketopa, the kōanga season is in full swing – bringing longer days, fresh growth, and a sense of renewal.  It’s also a reminder that the year is moving quickly, and with it the opportunities and challenges facing pakihi Māori.  From shifts in government policy to new investment pathways, there is much for us to reflect on, respond to, and prepare for.

Need a boost for your pakihi? We’ve got you. Poutama is proud to be part of the Regional Business Partner (RBP) Network, supporting pakihi Māori across Aotearoa with real, practical help – funded by the Government.  Reach out to one of the Poutama team and let’s kōrero about how we can awhi your journey.

We’re also gearing up to celebrate Māori enterprise and leadership at two major events this month — the KUMA Māori Business Awards, where Poutama is sponsoring the Emerging Business Leadership Award, and the MWDI Māori Businesswomen’s Awards, recognising wāhine Māori excellence in business.  These are significant opportunities to shine a light on the talent, creativity, and determination driving our pakihi forward.

In this edition of our pānui, we share updates on kaupapa shaping our collective path – from changes across the business landscape, to highlights of upcoming hui and sector events, and the mahi our kaimahi and partners are driving to uplift Māori enterprise.  We also look ahead to the months ahead, determined to close out 2025 with purpose and momentum.

As always, we mihi to our pakihi, whānau, and partners who continue to innovate, push boundaries, and create impact.  Together, we’re strengthening the ecosystem that will carry us toward our Rautaki ki 2040 vision.

We hope you enjoy the read.  Got thoughts, ideas, or just wanna say kia ora?  We’d love to hear from you!

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👉 Stay updated: www.poutama.co.nz

Ngā manaakitanga,

Te Whānau o Poutama