May Newsletter
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May 2011
- Ruaumoko
- Maori Moving Strategically
- Hairini Holdings
- Whakatane Marquee Hire
- Heavenly Sent – Marshall & Rochelle Gray
- Te Humeka – Waikato Maori Business Network
- Maori Business Network launches in Tauranga
- Poutama Out & About during April
- Cracking China - Don't leave Export Knowledge to Chance
- Contacts
Ruaumoko
In Maori mythology, Ruaumoko (also known as Ruamoko) is the youngest son of Rangi and Papa, god of volcanoes and seasons. He has never been born and remains inside his mother's womb. His movements are considered the cause of earthquakes. In other forms of Maori mythology, Ruaumoko was born and clung to Mother Papa's breast until he fell into the ‘Underworld’. There, when he walked he created earthquakes in the upper-world. He is also known as husband of ‘Hine Titama’, the goddess of death and a daughter of Tāne.
On the 22 February 2011 12:51 pm local time, ‘Ruaumoko’ moved causing a 6.3-magnitude earthquake to hit Otautahi (Christchurch) causing widespread damage and multiple fatalities. It followed nearly six months after the 7.1 magnitude 2010 Canterbury earthquake that caused significant damage to the region but no direct fatalities.
The following are articles from Poutama clients from Otautahi, The Chainman and Ko Tane that this event not only had a devastating effect on the landscape of Otautahi but also on their businesses as well as personally.
The Chainman Limited – Tony and Jeanette Tamakehu
Iwi – Te Ati Haunui-a-Paparangi
The Chainman Limited has been operating since 1998 and is owned and operated by Tony and Jeanette Tamakehu. It is one of Canterbury's largest privately owned independent supplier, manufacturer and distributor of lifting equipment. The company provides specialist rigging and lifting supplies as well as providing certified testing and repairs on all lifting components and replacement and re-roping service of all cranes.
Tony and Jeanette were both at work when the earthquake hit and in Tony’s words “I knew it was a big one”. Although physically shaken, their natural parental instincts, was concern for their two children.
Jeanette raced home and in a journey that would normally take under 15 minutes, but because of the state of the roads, it took over an hour. Despite the damage to their house with furniture and possessions strewn about the important thing was that their family was safe and sound. Tony says ‘the house had sunk but there was no irreparable damage but Jeanette didn’t want to stay there’. They consequently moved in with family for a couple of nights.
Once Tony had ensured the well-being and safety of his family, he and ‘couple of his boys’, went into the CBD to provide assistance where possible. He made contact with one of his friends/customers (Tim Smith) who owns a considerable size crane business (Smith Crane and Construction) and assisted with search and rescue efforts at the 4-story Pyne Gould Guinness building that had completely collapsed.
They assisted with the rescue of 8 people that day working till 3.00 in the morning when they were relieved by the USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) unit. They returned daily for about 2 weeks to assist where they could.
From there they went onto the CTV building to take charge of the heavy lifting operation which enabled police DVI team to recover the deceased from this site. Tony and his team were involved in this role until they had cleared the site.
(Photo at CTV building site with Tim Smith in front (green vest) and Tony above him (orange vest) with USAR team recovering a deceased Japanese student)
When questioned as to effect on the business ‘there was minor structural damage to the premises, with some loss of stock from the shelves collapsing with the major damage in the car park from liquefaction.’ Tony further added ‘that financially wise the business has been impacted with no income but still having the financial obligations to service’. He said ‘there maybe some aid coming from civil defence to compensate for their search and rescue efforts’.
Tony says ‘business is starting to recover slowly but not at the levels before the earthquake. Being involved in the construction industry work will eventually arise from the reconstruction of Christchurch. There were some issues initially with cleaning up the sand from the liquefaction. No running water that has now been restored and still no sewerage. Porto loos are not available for businesses, so we have to do that ourselves.’
There is no accounting for the personal impact the devastation has had and when questioned on this aspect ‘there are no words to describe the trauma, stress, worries, panic, emotional upheaval and feelings of helplessness. We are thankful that our family is safe and well and we are also fortunate that we lost no whanau or close friends during this time’.
For further information on The Chainman visit their website www.chainman.co.nz
Ko Tane – Dave Brennan
Iwi – Te Arawa, Kai Tahu
Ko Tane is a Maori Cultural Experience operated by the Brennan whanau and is located at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve in Christchurch. Visitors get to enjoy an authentic Maori cultural experience, where they are greeted with a traditional powhiri and treated to a cultural performance/show along with being able to explore a living village and wildlife reserve that includes displays of native birds, animals and fish. Visitors are also offered as an option, a traditional (Hangi) dinner.
Dave was in Wellington attending an MRTO meeting at the time the earthquake hit Otautahi having heard the news over the radio. His initial concern obviously was for the welfare and safety of his whanau and despite repeated efforts to make contact was unable to do so until 7.00pm that evening. In the meantime his wife had managed to retrieve their children from school and taken them home. As there was considerable damage to their home and for reasons of safety and with there being no power or water the whanau subsequently moved to a motel in the Riccarton area where damage was relatively minor.
At that stage Dave was in a panic and as he says ‘felt completely helpless as there was nothing he could do’. His next mission was to get home as soon as possible and with the airport closed managed to catch the ferry to Picton that left at 3.00am the next morning. Then there was the agonising journey from Picton to Christchurch that Dave said ‘seemed to take forever with the mind and imagination doing the head in’.
Dave’s gratitude goes out to Pania Tyson-Nathan and her team for arranging to get him home and for connecting and linking up with whanau that were in the same situation. Dave says ‘I cannot thank her (Pania) enough, I would have been stranded ... she even took me to catch the ferry at 3.00am in the morning’.
There was a complete sense of relief once he reached his whanau knowing they were safe and well. Dave’s wife is Italian and has told Dave in no uncertain terms ‘that the next time this happens, we are moving back to Italy’.
Since the event Dave and his whanau have banded together and along with others in the community helped in any way they can. They are thankful that they did not lose any whanau or close friends directly from this devastating event. Sadly since the first earthquake in September, Dave’s whanau have lost a brother (Te Ari) and as recently as last month they lost their mother, Ramari to add to an already traumatic and stressful time in their lives.
Dave and his whanau are getting on with their lives as best they can but the main issue Dave says ‘is the frustration at the lack of information; nobody knows what’s going on’. When probed further he added ‘when will they start rebuilding/repairing houses, and like in my situation is the land safe to do so?’
When questioned as to the effect on the business ‘we closed the business for 2 weeks with concentration on whanau and personal matters being the upmost important. There was no damage at Willowbank sustained but as with Tourism in Christchurch business is suffering. We are down to one show a night 7 days a week and be shortly moving to 4 days only. If it doesn’t pick up then we have to move to demand only’.
For further information on Ko Tane visit their website www.kotane.co.nz
Maori Moving Strategically
With a significant amount of the Maori asset based tied up in primary industry activities such as agriculture, fisheries , forestry and horticulture it was only a matter of time before Maori started moving as they say ‘beyond the farm gate’. Yet few in New Zealand would notice the shift that is occurring let alone realize that the ‘Sleeping Taniwha’ is well and truly awake.
These changes are seeing Maori thinking and acting strategically with Maori entities making moves into the value added aspects of primary production.
Recent examples include Ngai Tahu Holdings Ltd taking a cornerstone stake in PGG Wrightson (PGW) through investment in a joint venture with Chinese interests. The investment supports Ngai Tahu’s emerging rural strategy and creates a number of significant long-term opportunities and relationships – particularly in the Chinese market. Ngai Tahu already has a presence in China through its tourism and seafood businesses and this investment will further enhance their strategic development.
Also over the past two years work by a group of Central North Island farm Trusts and Incorporations sees them well on their way to establishing a milk processing plant. The group has come together under the brand name ‘Miraka’. Miraka is a local dairy company with an intergenerational focus for long term environmental sustainability and financial security for all suppliers, shareholders and staff.
Construction of Miraka Milk Plant at Tuaropaki
Note the words ‘intergenerational focus’ this is a strategic point of differentiation for Maori and means they are in it for the long haul. Whilst running a profitable business is paramount, being environmentally and socially responsible are key hallmarks of such businesses.
Strategic thinking is also in the actions of the Wakatu Incorporation and Whakatohea Maori Trust Board who last March made a visit to the Chinese city of Yantai where they were hosted by Chinese seafood company Oriental Ocean Sci Tech Ltd (OOL). OOL visited Aotearoa in 2010 where they in turn were hosted by Wakatu and Whakatohea.
The purpose of these reciprocal visits is for the development of aquaculture through the establishment of sea cucumber farming in New Zealand. Combining Chinese and Maori expertise and investment Wakatu and Whakatohea want to be at the forefront of developing a new aquaculture industry in New Zealand one where Maori will be key players and not just bit players as often has been the case. A key strategic point for this development is the building of relationships between the Chinese and Māori. These take time but then again having a planning horizon that is intergenerational is an advantage.
Wakatu & Whakatohea visit OOL’s sea cucumber farm
Who would know that Maori have a major stake in the kiwifruit industry through Te Awanui Huka Pak. Te Awanui has one of the largest single site kiwifruit packhouses with a production potential of over 5 million trays. Most of their kiwifruit production is marketed by association with Zespri, but their own Te Awanui brand is exported to India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia and North America through collaborative licenses.
Further along the Bay of Plenty coast Te Kaha is the home of Te Whanau Apanui Fruitgrowers Inc. The area produces premium grade gold Kiwifruit and whilst currently Te Whanau Apanui are mainly involved in the growing of kiwifruit they have aspirations of reaching into the more added value aspects of the kiwifruit industry. For the time being though they are just glad to be able to provide tangata whenua with sustainable employment and business opportunities.
Te Whanau Apanui, Ngati Porou and Te Taitokerau are also home to a number of Maori involved in the Manuka honey industry. Some of these businesses like Watson & Son are producing medical grade honey, while others like Whakaari International with their Ora Manuka Honey brand are exporting to Japan, China and Europe.
On the international front, Poutama along with the Maori Trustee Office and Aotearoa Fisheries Ltd are looking to undertake due diligence into the purchase of a Shanghai based NZ owned food and beverage distribution company. Such a purchase will give a direct channel to market for Maori produced food products and will enable greater control for moving products from as they say ‘paddock to plate’. Having such a channel will also open up opportunities for niche Maori food and beverage products for businesses like Kinaki Wild Herbs, Manuka Boosta, Kaitaia Fire, Hema Water and Waitangi Seafoods.
There are a number of other examples whereby Maori are positioning for greater participation and influence in New Zealand’s primary sector as well as increasing engagement in international trade.
For its part Poutama has set its 2020 strategic focus on Maori involvement in ‘KAI’ based around the following.
Poutama will be the honest broker and enabler through facilitating among Maori the following actions.
Maori are moving strategically and starting to gain footholds in many areas of New Zealand’s primary sector. Leveraging off points of differentiation such as the culturalisation of commerce (as opposed to the commercialization of culture), a collective and cooperative spirit, environmental care and intergenerational planning as well an innate sense of the importance of relationships, relationships, relationships the ‘Sleeping Taniwha’ moves imperceptibly throughout the land, Mauri Ora!
Hairini Holdings
Green Vally organic milk the way to go
Hairini Holding Ltd is the sole Rotorua distributor of Green Valley dairy products with a clientele base of over 60 businesses. The company is owned and operated by Ed and Denise Emery.Denise takes care of the monthly accounts and keeps the back of house in order and husband Ed takes on the multi-faceted role of managing director, sole employee, quality control and most importantly - customer support services manager. This whanau owned business firmly believes that this innate ability to offer customers genuine manaakitanga and whanaungatanga by treating them more than just customers, but as friends and family - has set Hairini Holding Ltd apart from the competition. As a result, the company has grown into the single largest independent distributor of Green Valley Products in New Zealand.
The main competition comes from the two biggest players in the New Zealand dairy industry, with residual competition coming direct from supermarkets and dairies. To remain a viable contender to the two major players in the distribution of dairy products in Rotorua, the business maintains a clear point of difference, in that it is the only independent distributor in Rotorua of Organic products, sourced directly from the supplier and making this Organic product range highly competitive in price and demand.
L-Owner/operator Ed Emery standing proudly beside his newly branded refrigerated truck
“Many of our customers are in the Rotorua restaurant, café and hospitality sector and over the years we have managed to secure approximately 80% of the Rotorua market” says Ed. “Our time in this business has identified the lack of customer service offered by the larger companies and this is something we have been able to accentuate by providing personalised, real-time solutions that business owners appreciate and relate too as great customer service” he says. With the popularity of organic milk on the rise, Hairini Holdings has had to invest in a larger refrigerated truck to cater to the growing demand, which now includes daily supply to surrounding regions including Tokoroa and Kawerau, including supply to the Norske Skog Kawerau Mill cafeterias that alone require a minimum of 1,000 litres per week.
“Our vision for the business is to become the best independent distributor of dairy products in New Zealand and we aim to do this by providing quality products at competitive prices, complimented by exceptional customer service” says Ed.
Interested in pure organic milk, contact Ed Emery on 0275 426724
Whakatane Marquee Hire - Providing your event & function solutions
Whakatane Marquee Hire is a Maori owned party hire business servicing Whakatane and the wider BOP region. The company provides a range of marquee's and party hire equipment catering for weddings, birthdays, corporate events, sports events and funerals with an additional service to cater for large marae based groups as far as the East Cape. The company is proudly owned by Shamrock and Sheridan Gay and is based in Merritt Street, Whakatane. They have owned the business for just under 2-years which was originally established 15 years ago by the previous owner.
“Whakatane Marquee Hire is not just about marquees, we also provide tables, chairs, tablecloths, chair covers, marquee silks, lighting, dance floor, roaster, spit, glassware, crockery, cutlery, chiller units and more” says owner Shamrock. “Recently we have set up marquees for the opening of Nga Awa Purua Geothermal Power Station in 2010, the Maori King in 2010, Tawera Nikau’s Home Opening in 2010, the Tuhoe Festival 40th Anniversary and we are also the official chair provider to Awanuiarangi for their past two Graduation ceremonies” says Shamrock.
The primary focus for the business is to build on their growing customer base, increasing sales and profitability through improved ability to deliver to the demand that comes with larger scale orders. With a limited ability to provide sufficient equipment, to either large events or multiple client bookings, the business found itself constantly challenged and compromised due to restricted capacity and an inability to satisfy customers. With focussed growth investment and support, the owners are now able to cater to these expectations and have been able to win favour with many locals in the region whom loyally support them and want to see their investment stay in the region. In addition to marques and tents, the business is able to fully cater for weddings, birthdays, corporate functions and tangihanga.
So if you are thinking of function or party hire requirements in Whakatane or the wider Bay of Plenty, then make sure to contact the team at;
Whakatane Marquee Hire
Ph: 07 3070777
Email: markey@xtra.co.nz
Heavenly Sent – Marshall & Rochelle Gray
Iwi – Te Arawa
Heavenly Sent was set up in 2005 by Marshall & Rochelle Gray. After doing hampers voluntarily for another company, they decided to set up their own so Rochelle could work from home while looking after the kids. They had a desire to provide great quality gifts, hampers and flowers for all occasions.
Heavenly Sent provides a simple solution to gift giving and buying and helps people give a thoughtful, quality gift. The whole point is to take the pressure out of gift purchasing, yet still make it personal.
Heavenly Sent has a beautiful range of Women’s and Men’s gifts including Tea gift boxes and indulgence boxes to name a few. Their range of baby and children’s gifts will delight any new mother or child and gifts for weddings and the home include dinner gift hampers, plush blankets, candles and more.
Corporate gifts and custom made gifts are their specialty, they aim to help businesses with promotional gifts and Christmas gifts and organise delivery options both nationally and internationally.
Their focus is on great service and excellent quality products in order to make the gifts memorable, enjoyable and convenient. The business has grown and now offers a wide range of gift hampers and gift boxes for everyday and special occasions.
They make it work for corporate customers or to the required tastes of individuals. They also provide full flower and gift service for special occasions including weddings, conferences, events and funerals.
Heavenly Sent has always had a focus on gifts but for the last two years they have developed a complete range of packaging products. Over the years while sourcing products for their gift hampers, they have built up relationships with their suppliers and now provide many of them with packaging options.
For further information check out www.heavenlysent.co.nz.
Te Humeka – Waikato Maori Business Network
Te Humeka Maori Business network is a non-profit organization whose main function is to support Maori Businesses servicing the Tainui Waka region, which includes Raukawa, Hauraki, Maniapoto and Waikato rohe. Te Humeka was formed in 2010 and seeks to promote local business products and services on a local, national and international scale.
Te Humeka provides a platform for Maori businesses to network, develop and share their successes and challenges and is open to any person or organisation interested in advancing Maori business aspirations.
Te Humeka was founded and is driven by key business people within the Waikato Business Marketplace who are committed to Maori Economic development and success. Te Humeka’s committee is made up of Anthony Ririnui, Kim Hill, Michelle Baker, Tamorangi Reuben, Don Jefferies, Phil Nock, Arnaturua Tao and Natasha Henare.
The first Te Humeka Networking Event for 2011 was recently held and was a huge success with over 45 people attending the breakfast. The guest speaker, Les Roa, Managing Director of Longveld Engineering, epitomizes a success story of a man who has come from humble beginnings and through vision, determination, passion and drive, has built an award-winning company. www.longveld.com/index.asp. He pays tribute to his wife, Pam who is his business team partner. “It’s all about whanau,” says Les.
Les spoke about the fact that the journey was not always one of smooth sailing, but he emphasised that there will always be challenges and trials in the development of any business. “When times get tough, keep you eye fixed firmly on the goal, on the end result that you desire for your business and yourself” he says.
Les says that one of the keys to the success of his business was that he and his management team spent a great deal of time consulting with key clients and contractors.
Les's presentation style encouraged interaction with those present and resulted in healthy discussion. These are some of the topics from which came invaluable business ‘gems’:
- What makes a Maori Business ?
- Embracing Maori Values
- If I call myself Maori does that make my business automatically Māori?
- Does a Maori business have to display something Māori….language, custom or culture?
- Can I potentially be audited to become a licensed Maori business?”
There was an excellent cross section of Waikato-Tainui business people present and there was strong support from Tainui Group Holdings. And the breakfast, catered by Harata Matchitt, was scrumptious!
The calibre of the event impressed all those who attended and comments heard at the end of the presentation endorsed the value of Te Humeka; people said that they would definitely spread the word. The executive and board members are all passionate about Maori business and economic development and are well networked to attract great speakers.
This comment came from Kelly Taite, Field Manager Electrical Services Hamilton, North power:
“The event showcased the integration of mixed cultures and gender to a common business goal. Les and his wife have introduced a culture within their business that has created ownership and success for many of his staff, which in turn is repaid by his staff in the quality of work that they produce.”
Be sure to attend the next Te Humeka event. If you have not yet become a member, we invite you to complete the attached form on our website and be in to win some invaluable business networking and success tips.
Maori Business Network launches in Tauranga
www.tmba.co.nzTe Manawa Pou Tahi – Tauranga Maori Business Network hosted their inaugural launch on 20th April at the Strand’s Maori owned Za Bar. The event was attended by over 60 Maori business people from a diverse range of sectors and interests. Whilst the organisation is yet to incorporate, it is in the process of registering as an incorporated not-for-profit Society. The objective of the network is to create genuine networking opportunities for members, establishing awareness amongst themselves and other key stakeholders of the Maori businesses in the wider Tauranga Moana region, and provide business facilitation and support.
At the launch guests were invited to listen to the benefits of joining Te Manawa Pou Tahi. The network was also supported on the night by the committee of Takiwai (the Rotorua Maori Business Network) whom themselves had recently formed in December 2010. Those that attended were also entertained by Tauranga rising talent ‘Porina’ and speeches from invited guests, Poutama’s Business Advisor - Oscar Nathan and Lead Negotiator for Ngāti Ranginui Willie Te Aho. In his speech Oscar spoke about the significant opportunities being presented to Maori businesses in the region, particularly in and around the RWC and Maori 2011 (www.Māori2011.com) the Maori collaboration website specifically established for Maori business across the Tauranga, Rotorua, Taupo and Whakatane regions. Following this was an inspiring korero from Willy, who expressed the importance of doing what you were passionate about and the need for Maori to step up to their potential.
‘There was definitely a happy and positive vibe in the air as many agreed to be members on the night’ says committee co-ordinator Kimi Katene. ‘Having businesses put their hands up to support the next function already, it was clearly an informative and enjoyable night had by all’ says Kimi.
Some of the benefits of joining Te Manawa Pou Tahi will include:
- Regular bi-monthly networking opportunities
- Monthly e-panui and information updates
- Smaller niche events focused on particular sectors
If you are a Maori business in Tauranga and interested in joining visit the website www.tmba.co.nz or email info@tmba.co.nz
Poutama Out & About during April
Tom Manaena
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Hawkes Bay Maori Business Network held their annual golf tournament on April Fools Day with 15 teams of four entered with a mixture of serious golfers and some non-golfers. Fun day had by all with every player getting a prize. Laser Electrical Napier winning the day with an amazing 7 birdies and an eagle on a nine hole tournament. Sadly my team (non-golfers) finished at the other end getting an easter egg for playing. |
Hawkes Bay Maori Business Network holds a Breakfast Meeting fortnightly on a Friday between 8.00 – 9.00am, alternating between Hastings and Napier. The last Breakfast Meeting was held at the E’s Cafe in Havelock North last Friday 15 April. Presentations were given by Karen Cooper from Regional Business Partner Hawkes Bay on the NZTE Capability Development Voucher Scheme; Henry Heke from TPK on the Maori Business Facilitation Service and myself on Poutama services.
Henry and I visited Pete and Tessa McKay at their Alpaca farm. They are excited that their trials on risk management, has been given approval enabling alpaca meat to be available to the meat trade in New Zealand. The McKay’s plan promotional activities and have retained quality meat supplier Grande Gourmet of Hastings for distribution, using the brand "Aymara".
Gail and I had a pleasant morning tea with Craig Pomare and Mark Dunn from Westpac Bank last week. Good convivial discussion around their services and a chance to foster the relationship with them and the bank. They did mention business loans being available and enquires can be directed to the Business Banking Managers in your region.
Mary Watson retired from Poutama at 31 March and we bid her farewell and wish her well for the future. Mary Watson has worked tirelessly and diligently as our Investment Advisor for the past 14 years and leaves with the portfolio in a healthy state. With Mary and her husband Bob being keen ‘hikers’, we last heard they were walking around Tasmania somewhere.
Richard Jones
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In early April I held a planning session with the Poutama board of trustees and focused on refining Poutama’s 2020 Strategy. The strategy is mainly centred on the fact that Maori are significant food producers in key areas such as seafood, agriculture and horticulture. Whilst the core of Poutama’s strategy is focused on KAI we will still be heavily involved with Maori micro-small business development particularly around innovation and exporting as well as Maori tourism where we have some exciting developments with an overseas travel wholesaler and the revamp of our Maori tourism website ‘Indigenous New Zealand’. |
Rawinia Kamau from Kamtech joined the planning session and presented on the BERL Report for the Maori Economic Taskforce. This report discusses a number of scenarios on Maori economic development. The scenarios are outlined as follows:
- Increased productivity Scenario – The level of productivity in the Maori economy is lifted to be the same as the national average across all industries by 2061
- Improved Exports Scenario – World demand for export products from NZ grows across a range of industries such as agriculture – dairy and meat products; forestry – logs and wood products; fish – fish and aquaculture products; tourism; education; and other services
- Investment Focus Scenario – More science and research investment is directed into the Maori economy, resulting in capital accumulation but not commercialization of a large lift in productivity.
- Doing Nothing Scenario – A ‘do nothing’ assumption is implemented and the model is used to simulate the changes in various economic measures due to ‘running down’ or devaluing the Maori asset base
We also caught up with Federation of Maori Authorities (FOMA) Chair, Traci Houpapa and board members, Te Horipo Karaitiana and Hemi Wheeler. Our korero revolved around areas of cooperation and communication. The last thing we want to do is duplicate each other’s services!! FOMA are currently looking for a new CEO, contact Traci if you are interested traci.houpapa@thsassociates.com
I attended a networking breakfast held by Te Humeka – Waikato Maori Business Network www.tehumeka.co.nz. Les Roa owner of Longveld Engineering (www.longveld.co.nz) gave an inspiring korero which included discussion on employment initiatives such as his Women in Welding programme.
The following evening I attended the launch of Te Manawa Pou Tahi – Tauranga Maori Business Association www.tmba.co.nz . Great turnout held at the Maori owned Za Bar. It seems that there is a revival of Maori business networks throughout parts of the country. Taitokerau are currently in discussion with Poutama on the start up of a network while Auckland, Dunedin and Wellington have long established networks that get together regularly.
I caught up with Chef Charles Royal and got to taste kai from the ngahere including Puku Rau (a hundred stomachs) this is a mushroom like food which when fried up by Charles tastes delicious. Also tasted his kawakawa meringue and shortbread, kai reka!!
Visited Waitangi Soda Springs www.sodasprings.co.nz and had a relaxing soak in their natural hot pools. The place is starting to take shape with landscaping and facilities looking good all set in a natural environment.
Caught up with Aotearoa Breweries in Kawerau www.mata.net.nz and got to have a wee sample of their hangi infused Taniwha Beer, very tasty.
Met up with the good folk at the Whakatohea Maori Trust Board www.whakatohea.co.nz and discussed the work they are doing on the establishment of sea cucumber farming with the end product to be targeted at the Chinese market. With over 4000ha of sea space and mussel farming about to get underway Whakatohea have plenty of opportunity and potential to create economic and social benefits for their people, Mauri Ora!
Closer to home I have been involved in the establishment of the Central North Island Rail Trail Collective. The Collective is made up of a group of 8 Maori land owning entities that are positioning to apply for a DoC concession to operate a number of commercial activities on the Pureora Timber Trail. The trail is a 70km two day bike ride through some of Aotearoa’s finest landscapes. I got to walk the first 4kms of the trail which meanders through tall native trees such as kahikatea, rimu and totara, the bird life is fantastic, tino ataahua!! http://www.doc.govt.nz/about-doc/news/whats-new/new-zealand-cycle-trail-project/central-north-island-rail-trail-cycleway/
Finally while there has been much made of by the media and various politicians on Ngati Whatua’s Waka on the Waterfront they have pressed ahead with an innovative development. Under the brand Waka Maori there will be a series of events showcasing Maori culture, sport, business and entertainment to be held in a unique purpose-built 70 metre long venue that follows the form of a waka. Check it out Waka Māori. Recently heard that the international media for the RWC will be based right next to the Waka!! http://www.poutama.co.nz/community/index.htm
Oscar Nathan
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It has been a time working with and meeting many Maori business owners, prospective committee members and committed individuals across the Bay of Plenty as a resurgence in establishing and sustaining Maori Business Networks across the region takes shape. Within the last few months alone, there have been no-less than three separate but similarly focussed Maori Business Networks established recently, as well as one purposely focussed Maori business centre in Manukau South Auckland launched. So if you are a Maori business or business person in any of the region’s below and don’t yet know about these networks, then click onto the link to the respective website and join up now; |
Te Humeka Waikato Maori Business Network
WAIKATO
www.tehumeka.co.nz
Te Humeka Maori Business network, is a non-profit organization whose main function is to support Maori Businesses servicing the Tainui Waka region, which includes Raukawa, Hauraki, Maniapoto and Waikato rohe. We are a newly formed organization, and are seeking to promote local business product and services on a local, national and international scale.
Takiwai Rotorua Maori Business
ROTORUA
www.takiwai.co.nz
Takiwai is the Rotorua Maori Business Network, a not for profit organisation whose main objective is to promote and support Maori businesses servicing the Rotorua region. Providing a platform for Maori businesses to network, develop and share their successes and challenges, Takiwai is open to any person or organisation interested in advancing Maori business aspirations.
Te Manawa Pou Tahi Tauranga Business Network
TAURANGA
www.tmba.co.nz
This Association has been created to support Maori organisations and individuals interested in business within the Tauranga and Western Bay of Plenty regions by providing regular networking events, business facilitation, monthly newsletters, a Maori business directory and annual conference.
Te Matatau Maori Business Centre
MANUKAU SOUTH AUCKLAND
www.mmbn.co.nz
The Maori Business Centre is a serviced office space for Maori SMEs (small medium enterprises). It is a place for Maori to do business from and for others to access Maori enterprise more readily. The services offered are business networking, business services, business facilities and advice. There are meeting rooms, hot desks and seminar room available for hire, as well as a series of regular Networking functions. Korero mai - call them today to find out more.
Has also been an extremely busy time as activities in and around the Rugby World Cup have been identified and developed, including a co-ordinated business approach to be better understanding cross-regional opportunities in terms of planned expos, events and other tournament related opportunities. With over 85,000 international visitors expected to visit the country, and with only 130 days to go, don’t miss out and register today at http://maori2011.webdirectionz.co.nz on Maori2011.com which is specifically focussed on the regions of Whakatane, Taupo, Tauranga and Rotorua. The initiative is open to any Maori business, trust, marae or other entity from the four above regions. Registration is free so what are you waiting for?
Did you know?
One hundred and twenty five years after their destruction in the 1886 eruption of Tarawera, part of Rotorua’s world famous Pink & White Terraces are to be seen again in the city, this time at the Rotorua International Stadium, venue for the region’s three Rugby World Cup matches later this year. Check out this actual view of the newly painted terraces.
Also looking forward to attending the formal launch of the recently announced Ngai Tahu owned Rainbow Springs $10m expansion at its Rainbow Springs Wildlife Park venture based in Rotorua. Work is due to begin within the next month on 'PROJECT BIG SPLASH', a high-tech water ride flowing through Rainbow Springs following the ecological evolution of New Zealand and will include a highly interactive ride as well as an outdoor 400-seat, free-flight bird show auditorium, an interactive children's playground and a new reptile enclosure.
Vonese Walker
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Met up with Tony from Pupurangi Hire & Tour for the first time in Whangarei, he is located in the Whangarei Town Basin, Jetty 1 in the Marina. He provides hire activities for land and water based activities as well as guided cultural tours – www.hirentour.co.nz |
Popped in to see Shiree at Persona Essence of Beauty based in Whangarei who was fully booked for the day. Persona has just relocated to a larger premise in the heart of Whangarei. For all your beauty needs check out www.personatherapy.co.nz
A key project I have been working on is the revamping and redevelopment of Poutama’s tourism website portal – www.inz.maori.nz. The Indigenous New Zealand project will focus on ensuring all Maori tourism operators and retailers are featured on the site and promoted as part of the several Rugby World Cup projects Poutama is involved with. It is also the aim of the website to be a key portal for Maori Tourism beyond RWC 2011. One of the key initiatives for the project is the integration of an online booking and payment system for operators who have bookable product. If you are a Maori tourism operator and would like to be involved, please contact me directly via vonese@poutama.co.nz.
As part of the INZ project I have also been working with Te Puni Kokiri’s RWC team to produce a brochure profiling Maori cultural tourism operators and retailers which will focus on reaching international and domestic visitors during RWC 2011. We have consulted with i-Sites, Air New Zealand, Tourism New Zealand, Real NZ Festival and AA New Zealand to assist with preparing the brochure and identifying suitable distribution channels.
Met with John Panoho, Navigator Tours to go over details for Matariki 2011 celebration in association with Air New Zealand International Lounge crew at the LAX Koru Lounge. Air New Zealand has chosen to embrace Matariki – Maori New Year and to celebrate by hosting VIPs to share the joy and emotion of Maori culture. Last year’s event went down well with this year’s event set to be bigger and better.
I had discussions with Toi Maori and several Maori Art Galleries regarding Maori Market 2011. Possibility of promoting artists and galleries as part of the Rugby World Cup projects Poutama is working on, specifically within the Wharewaka on the Wellington water front and Waka Maori on the Auckland water front. For further information check out the new Maori Market website - www.maoriartmarket.com
Finally in Out & About, He Mihi Nui to Taiamai Tours www.taiamaitours.co.nz for being included in National Geographic’s world’s 50 top “Tours of a Lifetime”
Mihi also to Kiwa Media for getting into the finals of the e-learning and education category of the World Summit Awards www.kiwamedia.com, Mauri Ora!
Cracking China - Don't leave Export Knowledge to Chance
New Zealand Trade and Enterprise is pleased to introduce China Business Training across New Zealand. It includes Scheduled Training delivered in a two day programme consisting of four half day modules.
This format allows participants to select the scheduled module(s) most appropriate to their needs. Companies are eligible to participate at the cost of only $50 per person per day. As class size is limited, priority will be given to NZTE clients.
The four training modules (see below) cover a comprehensive range of business topics.
Module 1: China Readiness – Market dynamics, Culture, Demographics, Political environment
Module 2: Market Entry Strategy – Business structures, Agents/ Distributors, Negotiation
Module 3: Operations – HR, Manufacturing, R&D
Module 4: Operations – Finance, Legal, Risk, Planning
If China training is suitable for other staff in your company please forward this email on. In addition to Scheduled Training, there are also custom training options that address company or sector specific issues. Click here for more details.
START DATE
First course starts Thursday 12th May 2011
LOCATION
Auckland,Tauranga, Hamilton, Napier, Wellington, Nelson, Christchurch and Dunedin.
REGISTER NOW
Class size is limited so click here to secure your place now.
Social Networking
Contact Us
Tom Manaena, Commercial Manager (Tom@poutama.co.nz 021 538 838 or 04 495 1132 ) - Tom is responsible for the finance, investment and accounting side of the business and also spends a lot of time out on the road covering the lower North Island, Auckland, Hawkes Bay, Central and Upper South Island regions. He also deals with clients at all levels and in all sectors.
Vonese Walker, Information Manager (Vonese@poutama.co.nz 021 683 681 ) - Vonese covers the Northland, Auckland and lower North Island regions. She deals with clients at all levels and in all sectors. Vonese also manages Poutama’s database and tourism website and is responsible for designing and improving Poutama’s service delivery to clients.
Gail Maxwell, Office Manager (Gail@poutama.co.nz 021 375 090 or 04 473 2652 ) - Gail is often the first point of contact for Poutama clients. She also supports Tom with the accounting function and provides back up to all of the team and board of trustees.
Richard Jones, CEO (Richard@poutama.co.nz 021 619 075 or Skype richtj ) - Richard focuses on strategic matters as concerns Poutama’s activities and also deals with clients at all levels and in all sectors. He has a particular focus on International business activities and liaises closely with Maori exporters. Richard also has responsibility for producing Poutama’s online newsletter and communications. Feel free to make contact with him with any relevant information or networking events for publication in the newsletter.
