Settlements have and will influence what gets done, particularly at the iwi and asset holding end, but SMEs also need to be developed. Clearly though, a team approach generates successful Maori enterprises, regardless of the organisation.
So begin by understanding their kaupapa, even if not immediately apparent.
I'd like to address three examples of progress - regardless of settlement processes. The first is Parengarenga Inc, which has many characteristics common to Maori assets or assets under Maori organisational management i.e. a large land holding comprising sheep and beef farms, a forestry unit and access to exquisite coastal amenities, and managed by a Maori Trust established under Te Ture Whenua Maori [Maori Land Act 1993].
Land under this act is predominantly owned collectively, but not exclusively.
Trustees are accountable, and required to conduct prudent financial management, be compliant with their deed, and report annually on progress, expenditure against budgets and, most importantly, conduct transparent election processes that invite beneficiaries' input and participation.
When trustees fail to meet their obligations, beneficiaries can seek recourse through the Maori Land Court.
The outstanding feature of Parengarenga Inc is that its strategic planning sessions include trustees, operational staff, beneficiaries and independent community observers. This group has high regard for the beneficiary voice, and does not shy away from potentially adverse commentary. Teamwork and inclusiveness are fundamental aspects to the leadership.
The second example is the very small, isolated community of Te Rawhiti. Te Rawhiti contains several excellent examples of natural capital, and, in terms of leadership, they do not see themselves so much as individuals, but as a team operating within a community framework.
What sets Te Rawhiti apart from others of similar ilk is the establishment of a community development plan based on tikanga values. In this tiny community there are two reasonably large, successful land-based trusts which also have shareholdings in a common company.
The other shareholding components of the community company, Te Rawhiti Enterprises, are held on behalf of the two local hapu and the marae. As a result of this shareholding arrangement directors are answerable to five of the main community groups.
Under this comprehensive, inclusive model all team members of the community - individuals, whanau, kuia and kaumatua - have a clear line of sight on the company activities.
The third example of Maori economic development that illustrates teamwork in economic development is small-to-medium enterprise. Stay Native is a whanau-based company comprised of several generations working in the digital space. This group came to Northland Inc's attention via The Pick 2017, a business enterprise competition for start-up businesses in Northland. Instituted by our collaborative work space, The Orchard, Stay Native came out at the top of 147 entries.
The Stay Native team says working together, working at home, working late hours, and impromptu meetings all come together because they are a "whanau team". In their words, "different areas of expertise and flexibility when dealing with family needs means roles are less important than outcomes".
The outcome for them, and the other examples highlighted, is to get the team working together towards a common vision.
■ George Riley is Northland Inc general manger of Māori economic development.
