The New Zealand Government has announced more than $5.3 million in new investments through the Māori Development Fund to support Māori-owned enterprises, strengthen regional economies, and expand export opportunities across key primary industry sectors.
Māori Development Minister Hon Tama Potaka Tama Potaka said the funding aligns with the Government’s broader “Going for Growth with Māori | Tōnui Māori” strategy, which aims to double exports within a decade while increasing productivity and long-term economic resilience in Māori business sectors.
A significant portion of the funding is directed toward horticulture, aquaculture, and renewable energy projects in regions including Hawke’s Bay, Raupunga, and Akaroa. The investments are designed to support infrastructure upgrades, expand production capacity, and improve resilience against environmental risks such as extreme weather and wildlife damage.
In Hawke’s Bay, $2.6 million has been allocated to Hineuru Orchards to enhance protective infrastructure and expand orchard operations, supporting increased export growth into Asian markets. The business is already one of the largest cherry producers in the North Island, and the investment is expected to strengthen output and resilience.
In Akaroa, Akaroa King Salmon has received $1.5 million to upgrade infrastructure and scale production. The expansion is expected to create around 50 new jobs and significantly boost export revenue over the coming years, while strengthening New Zealand’s premium aquaculture sector.
Another investment supports Parininihi ki Waitōtara Incorporation in developing renewable energy infrastructure using a mixed land-use model. The project is expected to generate enough electricity to power more than 8,500 homes annually, while also enabling diversification into clean energy and supporting regional industrial development.
Officials emphasized that these investments are intended to unlock the potential of collectively owned Māori assets, generate employment opportunities, and strengthen intergenerational economic development. The initiative reflects a broader government focus on supporting Māori participation in high-value industries, including agriculture, energy, and export-oriented production.
Overall, the programme aims to enhance economic growth by supporting Māori enterprises that contribute significantly to New Zealand’s primary sector, while promoting sustainable development and increased global competitiveness.
