On-going Environmental Scanning - Relationships focus

Success of our business is premised on understanding the expectations of, and having strong relationships with, both Government and Māori. In this we are the only agency of state that has this unique ability. We focus on strategic and purposeful relationships with Māori communities, to achieve mutual goals and our ultimate outcome of Whānau Ora. The relationships that we will engage in will be responsive to local needs and opportunities while also aligning with government priorities. In this way we will add value to our relationships with all stakeholders.

Of utmost importance is a need to ensure that we remain abreast of changing relationship expectations between the Crown and Māori, and are positioned to communicate those expectations to the respective parties. Over recent years these expectations have changed significantly, as Māori move from pre to post settlement phases. Currently, there is an emerging emphasis on the devolution of government funded services to Māori delivery mechanisms. On a day-to-day basis, our regional office network provides local level intelligence on emerging issues and expectations among Māori communities, and Ministers are regularly apprised of this information.