Tauranga Hosts Landmark Māori Finance Hui to Support $126 Billion Economy

Nearly 200 Māori professionals are gathering in Tauranga on 24 July 2026 to explore strategies for expanding New Zealand’s $126 billion Māori economy. The annual hui-ā-tau, titled Mana Motuhaketia Te Ao Māori, is hosted by Te Puna Tahua Toa, a national not-for-profit network dedicated to finance, governance, and commerce professionals. This year marks a significant milestone as the event is held for the first time at The Cargo Shed, a venue owned by mana whenua. The sold-out event has already provided a substantial boost to the local region, generating an estimated $300,000 for the Tauranga economy. Organisers noted that 99% of the event's expenditure is expected to flow directly to local and Māori suppliers. Hau kāinga spokeswoman Roimata Ah Sam told the Bay of Plenty Times that the hui provides a vital space for emerging leaders to shape the future of the finance sector. She emphasised that today’s professionals must act as strategic advisers who connect commercial success with Māori values and aspirations. Te Puna Tahua Toa spokesman Ken Munn highlighted a significant shift in the makeup of the sector. He noted that individuals from Māori entities, including iwi and ahu whenua trusts, now outnumber those from the 'Big Four' professional services firms by three to one at the gathering. Munn stated this change demonstrates that Māori are increasingly advising their own organisations from within, staying closer to the assets and decisions that drive their communities. The speaker lineup features prominent Bay of Plenty figures, including Noa Blanket co-founder Josh Te Kani and creatives Chelsea Winstanley and Ria Hall. According to the Bay of Plenty Times, the hui aims to ensure that as the Māori economy grows, the stories and values of the people remain central to its commercial success.