Māori a major driving force for New Zealand’s economy
If New Zealand wants to find an area that’s key to unlocking huge potential economic growth, it need look no further than the Māori economy and workforce.
Following a pre-release snapshot at its Tuia 2024 event, Ringa Hora Services Workforce Development Council (WDC) is pleased to release the full report of Tirohia Ki Tua – a deep dive into the impact and value of Māori within the Service sector.
Informed by key data from census 2023 and from insights drawn from industry members across the Service sector over the last three years, Tirohia ki Tua provides a tangible roadmap of what Māori in our industries are doing now and the impact they can make for future generations.
Ringa Hora supports the Services sector, which contributes more than $120 billion yearly to GDP. The 2023 Te Ōhanga Māori report has shown the Māori economy has shifted away from its reliance on primary industries into more diverse areas such as real estate and property services and administrative, support and other services. Within the Service sector are an estimated 130,000 Māori, including around 7,000 Māori-owned businesses contributing over $14 billion in GDP. This represents a significant pillar of New Zealand businesses and the future workforce.
With those numbers, it’s clear that when the Māori economy performs at a high level, so does New Zealand. However, if Māori are not participating in an industry to a level that’s close to the overall population, the industry’s potential will not be realised.
“Māori are becoming a larger proportion of the population, with nearly 30 per cent of New Zealanders under 25 identifying as Māori. All businesses should be mindful of this, and the smart move is to plan for this future workforce,” says Ben Ngaia, Poumatua of Ringa Hora.
“Tirohia ki Tua highlights the transformative contributions of Māori in the Service sector and seeks to stimulate a deeper understanding of cultural values and principles and their immense importance within industry. This resource gives prominence to how meaningful relationships with Māori continue to further innovation, collaboration, and shared success.”
This resonates with Te Rina McRae-Hape, Kaitautoko of Tauranga Māori Business Association (TMBA), who will host an interactive wānanga for their members exploring Tirohia ki Tua in May.
“In today’s tough economic climate, challenges facing our pakihi can feel daunting. Tirohia ki Tua showcases the unique skills, resources and ideas that Māori bring to the table that can uplift fellow businesses. Collaboration is the bridge that unites our diverse strengths, transforming individual efforts into a powerful force for change,” she says.
The report’s insights underscore the importance of supporting opportunities to boost New Zealand’s economy by fostering Māori businesses and workers. A collaborative, partnership-based approach can be applied across the economy, and the benefits to all are potentially transformational.
Download and read the full Tirohia Ki Tua report on the Ringa Hora website here.
