Strengthening Māori Voice in Horticulture – Pānui #1 Summary
In our first pānui for 2023, Tāngata Huawhenua reflects on recent advocacy, capability building, and strategic opportunities for Māori in the horticulture sector. As the only national platform focused solely on Māori horticultural interests, our work continues to grow across our four strategic pou: Voice & Advocacy, Capability, Opportunities, and Membership.
Key Updates
Advocacy on Key Issues
We’ve made submissions on a wide range of sector reforms including:
- Plant Variety Rights Regulations
- Climate change initiatives (He Waka Eke Noa / Te Aukaha)
- Te Ara Paerangi (RSI Review)
- Resource management reforms
We’ve also raised strong concerns over the EPA’s consultation process on Hydrogen Cyanamide (Hi-Cane), advocating for meaningful engagement with Māori growers. Our position on green kiwifruit licensing and the need for market access to publicly funded breeding programs remains clear — it’s time to create alternatives that support equitable outcomes for Māori.
Protective Cropping & Food Security
Protective cropping is vital to the future of sustainable horticulture in Aotearoa. We’re initiating discussions to build local food production systems that are community-based and low impact. A hui will be convened for those keen to help shape this kaupapa.
Growing Capability
Science and Innovation Summit
We’re planning a one-day Research, Science & Innovation Summit for members to collaborate on the future of innovation in the sector. This will focus on Māori priorities in plant breeding, cultivation, processing, and science partnerships.
HortTech ITP Project
Supported by Callaghan Innovation, our HortTech project seeks to:
- Map Māori knowledge and aspirations in horticultural technology
- Identify collaborative opportunities among Māori entities
- Evaluate how well the current science ecosystem serves Māori horticulture
Contact Manu Caddie for involvement: manu@enquire.co.nz
Membership
Tāngata Huawhenua became an incorporated society in December 2021. Membership is open to Māori collectives or Māori-owned businesses active in horticulture or related sectors. To join, make contact HERE
📥 Download the Full Pānui #1 (PDF)
Ngā mihi nui,
Rātahi Cross
Chairman, Tāngata Huawhenua
