Three Māori businesses have been recognized for their contribution to New Zealand’s exporting economy after being announced as finalists for the Māori Category 2015 New Zealand Business International Awards.
Māori food and beverage company, Kono, fishing company Sealord and milk processor, Miraka are all contenders in the inaugural He Kai Kei Aku Ringa Award for Māori Excellence in Export, which recognises Māori business contribution to the New Zealand export economy.
The Māori economy is substantial, totalling around $40 billion across a range of asset classes including:
- 40% of forestry land
- 38% of fishing quota
- 30% of lamb production
- 12% of beef and sheep units
- 10% of dairy production
- 10% of kiwifruit and ownership of geothermal, digital, services, education and tourism businesses.
Robin Hapi is one of the judges for Māori Excellence in Export Award. He strongly believes the three finalists are world-class exporters that draw on culture, people, innovation and assets. Mr Hapi also recognises that Māori economy has huge potential to lift the New Zealand economy.
“Education of our young will be critical, alongside the creation of high value jobs, and international businesses of scale that build on technology, IP and the creativity of our people,” stated Mr Hapi in a media release.
Winners will be announced at a black tie ceremony at Sky City in Auckland on March 25.