Māori Business Leader Traci Houpapa Calls for Strategic Investment in Economic Independence

On Wednesday 14 October 2026, leading Māori business figure Traci Houpapa joined Radio Waatea to discuss the resilience and future trajectory of the Māori economy. Amidst national economic uncertainty, Houpapa, who is associated with the Federation of Māori Authorities (FOMA), described Māori enterprise as a growing source of investment and opportunity that currently spans sectors including agriculture, fisheries, technology, and construction. Speaking with Radio Waatea’s Matthew Tukaki, Houpapa explored whether Māori businesses are investing sufficiently in their own people and skills to ensure multi-generational prosperity. The discussion highlighted a shift toward Māori enterprises taking greater control of their economic destinies rather than relying solely on government-led initiatives. Houpapa suggested that the challenge for Māori leadership is to build on existing strengths to ensure long-term success despite challenges like capital access and workforce shortages. A central focus of the report was the critical role of workforce development. With many workers looking toward opportunities in Australia, the conversation turned to how Māori businesses can attract and retain talent at home. By strengthening education pathways, apprenticeships, and vocational training, Houpapa noted that Māori enterprises could play a vital role in creating sustainable careers for rangatahi, allowing whānau to build both financial security and professional expertise within Aotearoa. The discussion also emphasised the potential for greater collaboration between Māori organisations. Houpapa argued that by leveraging collective economic capacity and establishing commercial partnerships, Māori-owned businesses could strengthen supply chains and develop new industries. This approach seeks to balance engagement with government policy while exercising greater economic independence to benefit future generations.