Government Allocates $40 Million to Māori Development Fund to Boost Economic Resilience and Infrastructure

Te Puni Kōkiri has confirmed a significant annual investment of $40.21 million into the Māori Development Fund, aimed at advancing the social, economic, and cultural aspirations of Māori communities. According to an update released on Tuesday, 21 July 2026, the funding is part of the Government’s Tōnui Māori plan, focusing on unlocking the economic potential of Iwi and Māori assets. The investment priorities for the 2025/2026 financial year center on two key pillars: improving the productivity of Iwi assets through infrastructure co-investment and increasing Māori export revenues. The fund is designed to provide kaitono with the resources necessary to become investment-ready, offering support for technical advice, feasibility studies, and business cases that help de-risk large-scale projects. Beyond commercial growth, the Māori Development Fund is placing a heavy emphasis on community resilience. Te Puni Kōkiri states that specific focus will be given to proposals that strengthen marae preparedness for natural emergencies and initiatives that support rangatahi into education, employment, and formal training pathways. This includes development plans to help marae become economically self-sustainable while maintaining their roles as cultural hubs. Eligibility for the fund extends to a variety of New Zealand-based legal entities, including trusts incorporated under Te Ture Whenua Maori Act 1993, registered incorporated societies, and Māori Trust Boards. The fund encourages collaborative efforts, allowing legal entities to act as umbrella organisations for smaller community groups. By providing these grants, the Government aims to support Iwi and Māori businesses in achieving long-term outcomes that align with their own self-determined goals.