The wānanga brought together a vibrant group of pakihi owners and leaders for a working lunch and kōrero with guest speakers Tukaha Milne and Te Hiwi Preston, exploring what Te Tiriti in Practice looks like for Māori businesses today, with a strong focus on sustainability woven throughout the kaupapa.

Tukaha Milne shared powerful insights on Māori governance and the role of Te Tiriti in shaping values-based, culturally grounded business practices. Te Hiwi Preston offered whakaaro on embedding sustainable approaches that uphold tikanga and reflect our relationship with whenua. Their kōrero encouraged deep reflection on how pakihi Māori can ground their mahi in Te Tiriti o Waitangi while navigating the challenges and opportunities within Te Ao Māori.

The wānanga drew strong attendance and positive feedback, with participants valuing the speakers and the opportunity to connect kanohi ki te kanohi. Suggestions for future wānanga included introducing a panel discussion and incorporating more cultural elements into business development and practice.

We acknowledge and thank our guest speakers, Tukaha and Te Hiwi, for their time and whakaaro. Their contributions helped shape a powerful and impactful experience. This wānanga laid a solid foundation for future kaupapa and reaffirmed the importance of Māori-led business spaces grounded in tikanga, mātauranga Māori, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Kaikohe and Kaipara, we’re excited to bring this important kōrero to your rohe. Keep an eye on your inbox and socials for details — we’d love to see you there.