The Hui Taumata report outlines the outcomes and strategic direction for advancing Māori economic development following a significant gathering of 450 participants.
This event marked a unanimous endorsement for an independent agenda-setting and action by Māori, heralding a new era of partnership. The report proposes the establishment of a Hui Taumata Taskforce, tasked with coordinating and advancing the stages of work identified during the hui. This Taskforce, comprising members from the Hui Taumata Steering Committee, the Chief Executive of Te Puni Kokiri, business community representatives, and representatives from the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions, aims to develop action plans based on the hui’s findings and initiate studies and projects to propel Māori economic development. Key areas highlighted for transformative experiences include the creation of a regular forum for debating national Māori economic issues, holding national and regional Hui Taumata, forming regional rōpū for advancing hui messages, and compiling accessible data on Māori economic development. Emphasis is placed on Māori taking primary responsibility for their economic development. The report identifies several critical areas for attention: long-term planning within a global framework, shifting focus from access to high achievement, collaborative opportunities for economic advancement, increasing investment in Māori development, enhancing Māori human capital, fostering enterprise and entrepreneurial skills, exploring Māori identity as a source of innovation, and promoting excellent leadership and governance.