Key Drivers of Future Change²⁸

42. The current recession and its impacts on Māori need to put in the current as well as future economic context. This has implications for the policy responses to the recession in that they should, as much as possible, leverage off current and future economic settings and trends
43. Te Puni Kōkiri officials have identified three key drivers that will influence the way that Māori participate in the economy leading to the year 2030: moving to the innovation economy, redistribution of world economic power and climate change and resource pressures. Each of these drivers is outlined in further detail below.

Moving to the innovation economy

44. Key drivers of change for Māori in the innovation economy include creation of knowledge and innovation; technological advances through new as well as established sectors in which Māori have a share; research and development, as well as education.
45. The greatest benefit of the innovation economy will accrue to Māori who can access and adopt new technologies. Indeed, having an innovative Māori society may be more important for growth than having a high rate of capital investment. One of the main factors driving the innovation economy will be technological advances. These advances will impact both on the existing sectors in which Māori participate, and the new sectors that have great potential for Māori. Research and development coupled with education will be additional important factors enabling Māori to excel in the innovation economy.

²⁸ For Māori Future Makers, Te Puni Kōkiri research report, October 2007.