Māori Business Projects Receive $5.3 Million Growth Boost

Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka said the investments will help businesses increase productivity, strengthen local economies, and generate long-term benefits for Māori communities.

More than $5.3 million in new Government funding is being directed toward Māori-owned business projects across New Zealand, supporting expansion plans in horticulture, aquaculture, and renewable energy while creating new employment opportunities in regional communities.

Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka said the investments will help businesses increase productivity, strengthen local economies, and generate long-term benefits for Māori communities. The funding forms part of wider efforts to support economic growth and boost export earnings across the country.

The projects receiving support are located in Hawke's Bay, Raupunga, Akaroa, and Taranaki, with each investment focused on helping businesses scale operations and unlock new opportunities.

Renewable Energy Project Creates New Opportunities

One of the supported initiatives involves Parininihi ki Waitōtara Incorporation, an intergenerational Māori business that is expanding into renewable energy through a mixed land-use model on its whenua.

The project is expected to increase the organisation's ability to diversify its assets while creating opportunities for training, employment, and skills development within the region. Government support will contribute to infrastructure that could generate enough electricity annually to supply more than 8,500 homes.

The development is also expected to support wider economic activity by creating construction and maintenance jobs while helping regional manufacturers access cleaner energy sources. Officials say the project demonstrates how renewable energy can provide long-term value for Māori landowners and communities.

Horticulture and Aquaculture Set for Expansion

In Hawke's Bay, Hineuru Orchards will receive $2.6 million to improve orchard infrastructure and strengthen protection for its crops. The investment will fund measures designed to reduce damage from severe weather and bird activity while supporting plans to increase exports into Asian markets. Hineuru Orchards is already recognised as the North Island's largest cherry producer. The upgrades are expected to increase production capacity and improve business resilience as export demand continues to grow.

A further $1.5 million will be invested in Akaroa King Salmon, a partnership involving Ōnuku Rūnanga and Ngāti Porou. The funding will support infrastructure improvements that will allow the company to increase production and respond to growing demand in overseas markets.

The business expects the expansion to create around 50 new jobs and significantly increase export revenue during the next three years. Industry leaders say the company has established a strong reputation for premium salmon products and sustainable production practices, creating a solid foundation for future growth.

Mr Potaka said successful Māori businesses deliver benefits that extend beyond commercial performance. Increased employment, higher household incomes, stronger regional economies, and greater opportunities for future generations all contribute to broader community wellbeing. He said the investments demonstrate the potential of Māori-owned assets to drive economic growth while creating lasting value for communities throughout New Zealand.