Our history
Te Matarau was born out of a shared vision: to strengthen Māori economic futures across Te Ūpoko o Te Ika a Māui – the Wellington Region – in a way that honours our past, meets the needs of today, and looks boldly to the future. This kaupapa was initiated by the Te Ūpoko o Te Ika Mana Whenua Leadership Forum, who brought together a working group to guide the development of a strategy that enhances the prosperity of our whenua, wai and whānau – for all who call this region home.
Ruruku – Binding the Vision
The development process was named Ruruku, symbolising the act of binding together toward a shared kaupapa. It speaks to our interconnectedness – to each other, to the whenua, and to our collective potential. Ruruku connects the mahinga kai of the past with the mahinga kai of the future, reflecting the evolving Māori economy. Ruruku also draws inspiration from the story of Māui, who, through innovation and collaboration, fished up Te Ika a Māui. This story reminds us that great challenges can be met with courage, ingenuity, and unity.
Mar 2021
Idea for Te Matarau a Māui emerges
The Ara Tahi Forum—a collective of mana whenua leaders from across the Greater Wellington region identified the need for a cohesive, region-wide strategy to support the economic aspirations of all Māori within the rohe. The wanted to ensure that all Māori, regardless of affiliation, could participate in a future-focused, collaborative regional economy.
Oct 2021
Greater Wellington Regional Council supports the strategy
GWRC funded the development of what would become the Te Matarau a Māui Māori Economic Development Strategy and resourced the appointment of a Kaihautū to lead its formation and build momentum across the region. This initial phase involved deep engagement with Māori businesses, iwi, hapū and support agencies, culminating in a strategy grounded in kaupapa Māori values and aligned with regional aspirations for inclusive and sustainable development.
Jun 2022
Te Matarau a Māui Charitable Trust was formally established
The Trust now acts as the steward of the strategy, with a mandate to lead its implementation and advocate for Māori economic advancement across Te Ūpoko o Te Ika. GWRC continues to be a committed partner, providing baseline operational funding and project-based investment of $450,000 per annum, as set out in a multi-year funding agreement. This partnership reflects a strong commitment to Tiriti-based collaboration and shared regional prosperity.
Mahia te kaheru matarau!
Utilise the spade of a hundred blades!
Te Matarau exists to enable Māori-led innovation across digital, business, and environmental domains. It supports a next generation of Māori entrepreneurs and embeds mātauranga Māori in the future economy.
