Labour will facilitate regional Māori economic development agencies

The next Labour Government will facilitate the creation of regional Māori economic development groups lead by iwi and hapū to work in partnership with business and public agencies as part of its Māori Development policy.

“Labour is committed to working towards a positive Treaty partnership in the post-settlement era that supports iwi, hapū and whānau to determine their aims, aspirations and success,” says Labour Leader David Cunliffe.

“Labour will help facilitate the creation of regional Māori economic development groups led by iwi and hapū, in partnership with business interests and public agencies.

“The scale that can be achieved by Māori entities working together is the key to accessing international trade markets and fully realising the value of Māori business. Labour will strive to partner with hapū and iwi to create an environment that encourages collaboration and innovation.

“This strategy will start with Māori entities working together at a regional level and will enable a strategic approach to Māori business development, employment and intergenerational planning.

“Labour will explore with iwi and hapū the possibility of working together to establish a Māori innovation and development fund to support Māori business growth and drive a collaborative Māori brand as a part of its economic development strategy,” says David Cunliffe.

“As part of our commitment to Māori development, Labour will ensure that all historical Treaty settlements are completed by 2020, tackle inequality by targeting policies that focus on low to middle income earners and encourage whānau to participate fully in education and life-long learning,” says Labour’s Māori Affairs spokesperson Nanaia Mahuta.

“Labour shares the long-term aspirations of Māori and will take up the challenge to equip rangatahi with the skills they need to build a quality life in Aotearoa New Zealand,” says Nanaia Mahuta.

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