Government Priorities

During 2006 the government updated its strategic direction for the Public service with the release of three new high-level priorities already mentioned.

Incorporated into our Statement of Intent in terms of the following headings, considering and acting on these within the overall context of the Māori Potential Approach became the predominant drivers of our work.

This section of the report introduces how the three priorities were interpreted by Te Puni Kōkiri, with examples of our contributions during the year. Full details of our outputs are in the Statement of Service Performance, beginning on page 21 of this report.

Economic Transformation

Through maximising Māori collective assets and growing Māori Innovation

Māori economic development was supported by Te Puni Kōkiri during the year through a mix of policy development and support for Māori business and asset development. In line with the Māori Potential Approach, our aim has been to harness the Māori contribution to government priorities in ways which tap the distinctive strengths and natural affinities of Māori culture. The main tools employed were assistance through the Ministry’s Māori Business Facilitation Service (MBFS), investments and support for infrastructure and capacity development, and policy leadership and influence.

From a policy perspective, one of the key areas of work has been developing an economic forecasting report, which identifies key drivers of change in the global economy, and identifies options to optimise Māori participation and success in that future economy. This report will be completed in the 2007/08 year.

the MBFS provides advice and support for Māori businesses and organisations. Māori organisations in general are central to Māori development through their role in managing and growing collectively owned assets, for example, in land, fisheries, aquaculture and forestry. Te Puni Kōkiri progressed proposals for a new governance entity specifically shaped to meet the needs and aspirations of Māori collectives. These were based on the Law Commission report, Waka Umanga – A Proposed Law For Māori Governance Entities, informed through consultation at 15 regional hui and by advice from other government agencies. More directly, we facilitated governance training for numerous Māori organisations.

The review of the Māori trustee and the Māori trust office which Te Puni Kōkiri is leading has made good progress. This review enquires into:

• the nature and role of the Māori Trustee;
• ongoing funding for the Māori Trustee and the Māori Trust Office;
• the debt owed by the Māori Trustee to the Crown; and
• the rate of return paid on investments in the common fund.

Agreement has been sought to introduce legislation to effect proposed changes to the Māori Trustee and Māori Trust Office.

In August 2006, Te Puni Kōkiri obtained Cabinet agreement to a Māori Land Development Action Plan. Te Puni Kōkiri contributes to the implementation of this plan by funding land development projects, facilitating expert assistance and coordinating related initiatives across the government.