Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s (B+LNZ) Māori Agribusiness team recently hosted an event in Tai Tokerau to strengthen ties with Māori farmers and whenua Māori.
This is part of B+LNZ’s commitment to fostering strong relationships and building connections within the Māori farming community.
Māori Agribusiness represents a significant and growing part of the red meat sector and B+LNZ needs to deliver value to these levy payers, who have some unique characteristics including the structure of their operations and level of development of their land.
Held at 2023 Northland Ballance Farm Environment Award Finalist Oromahoe Trust in Te Tai Tokerau, the event brought together governing decision-makers, management, and beneficiaries of whenua/entities including chairpersons, trustees, and uri (whānau) to farm managers, both Māori and non-Māori.
The day included a farm tour, where Farm Manager Dean Candy shared the Trust’s goals.
Candy says, “We highlighted the extensive riparian fencing and native planting happening on our flatlands and examined the sheep country – looking at what we’re doing in terms of water articulation and weeding.
“It’s always good to bring people together and learn from each other at events like this. It is especially helpful in terms of growing a diverse network of people with differing ideas.”
Charles Taituha, B+LNZ’s Pouhere Rautaki Ahuwhenua Māori (Māori Agribusiness Strategy Lead), says B+LNZ’s Māori Agribusiness team is embarking on a meaningful journey of whakawhanaungatanga - reconnecting with our Māori farmers and whenua Māori.
“The day reinforced that by being present, engaging, and communicating openly, we are building a resilient network that supports our whānau and adds value for them. The ongoing commitment to effective engagement ensures that we continue to grow together, fostering a thriving Māori agricultural community, which is good for the entire sector.
“Recognising that, as with all farmers, our whānau lead busy lives, the focus of our engagement is understanding when and how to connect effectively. Whether it's a casual catch-up over a cup of tea on the whenua (land) or convening a hui (meeting) at the marae, our approach is tailored to their needs. This ensures that we can respond promptly and, most importantly, contribute value to both their whenua and whānau.”
Learn more about Oromahoe Trust and the 2023 Ballance Farm Environment Award here.