Supporting Maori to Build Partnerships with China

Supporting Maori to Build Partnerships with China

Maori efforts to build partnerships with China will create economic, social and cultural gains that will enrich New Zealand.

AIA New Zealand chief executive, Wayne Besant, is applauding Maori efforts to foster relationships with China and said this weekend’s inaugural Taniwha & Dragon Festival in Auckland will deepen understanding and goodwill between the two cultures.

Mr Besant, whose company is a major sponsor of the Festival and a part of the AIA Group which actually began in China in 1919, foresees significant opportunities for Maori business in what is a smart economic development strategy.

“In terms of the global economy this is very much the time of the Asia-Pacific region. Our government, business and Maori communities are already proactive in building relationships with China for the mutual benefit of both countries. And whilst there are many who play an important role in developing this relationship, it is Maori who bring a unique dimension as tangata whenua,” said Mr Besant.

“New Zealand is connecting with China at a cultural level. Just as China has a rich cultural heritage so too does New Zealand. This dynamic adds significant value to developing relationships and long-term benefits for both countries.”

The Taniwha & Dragon Festival, initiated by the Minister of Maori Affairs, will be hosted by Ngati Whatua at Orakei marae, Takaparawha (Bastion Point) on Saturday 27th April 2013. The day will commence with a formal powhiri to acknowledge and welcome the Chinese community followed by a celebration of cultures – with Maori and Chinese entertainment, kite flying including a competition for schools, as well as food, crafts and information stalls. Entry to the festival is free and open to all.

Ahead of this the Chinese Consul-General, Niu Qingbao, the Minister of Maori Affairs, Hon. Dr Pita Sharples, and Mr Besant will host VIPs to acknowledge the commencement of what is hoped will become a regular event.

“As part of the world’s largest independent publicly-listed Pan-Asian life insurance group, with over 90 years of experience in China, we know how important building these connections can be – both internationally and at home,” said Mr Besant.

“In New Zealand, AIA has the industry’s leading Asian-focused adviser network which supports both our resident and migrant Asian communities. We also have long-standing initiatives in the Maori community, such as our work with Maori Television as sponsor of the top-rating AIA Marae DIY series, and we offer a world-first insurance solution specifically for Iwi”, said Mr Besant.

“The AIA Group is already a market leader in the region, with representation in 16 markets across the Asia-Pacific,” he said.

About AIA New Zealand

AIA New Zealand is a member of the AIA Group. AIA is listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited as stock code 1299.

Since the company arrived in New Zealand in 1981, AIA New Zealand has consistently provided the market with innovative personal and business insurance products that suit the Kiwi way of life. Today AIA offer a complete range of risk management products that focus on the needs of customers.

AIA New Zealand is based in Auckland with regional offices in Wellington, Hamilton and Christchurch. However, through a network of financial advisers, AIA reaches every corner of the country.

AIA New Zealand is a member of the Financial Services Council (FSC), the Insurance and Savings Ombudsman Scheme (ISO) and the Health Funds Association of New Zealand (HFANZ).

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