Māori Land at the Centre of Aotearoa’s Land-Use Future
A recent landmark report from Lincoln University and ASB affirms what Māori landowners have always known — that whenua Māori holds untapped potential to transform the future of Aotearoa’s land-use economy. In response, Tāngata Huawhenua Māori Horticulture Council is calling for urgent action to remove the barriers to Māori-led land development.
Key Takeaways
Māori-Led Development is Essential
The report, Future Use of Land and How to Fund It, emphasizes that diversification of on-farm systems and empowering Māori landowners is critical for achieving sustainable economic, environmental, and social outcomes in New Zealand.
The Growth is Clear — The Potential is Greater
The Māori horticulture sector has expanded by over 300% in the past 12 years. However, vast areas of Māori land remain under-utilised due to financing and regulatory constraints. Unlocking this land could open the door to high-value crops, native species, and sustainable Māori-led food systems.
It’s Time for Co-Designed Investment
Council Chair Rātahi Cross says it’s time for the government, finance sector, and investors to work with Māori to co-design funding mechanisms that support long-term, intergenerational success — rooted in tikanga, whānau, and innovation.
“What’s needed now is capital access, regulatory flexibility, and a long-term commitment to Māori-led innovation.”
A Call to Action
Tāngata Huawhenua is committed to partnering with government, industry, and Māori landowners to activate the report’s recommendations and ensure Māori whenua is central to Aotearoa’s future food and fibre economy.
📥 Download the Full Press Release (PDF)
Ngā mihi nui,
Rātahi Cross
Chairman, Tāngata Huawhenua Māori Horticulture Council
