A group of Māori food and beverage leaders from New Zealand will visit Singapore and Thailand from 18th to 28th May. Organised by the Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono, with backing from Te Taumata, the group aims to expand business connections in Southeast Asia. This region holds significant business opportunities, and Māori entrepreneurs, known for their sustainable and healthy products, are well poised to meet the demand.
Te Taumata chairman, Chris Karamea Insley, highlighted that international trade has been an integral part of Māori tradition, dating back to the 1700s. Currently, one in every four Māori jobs is in international trade, indicating its significance for Māori businesses.
The delegation includes:
- Oren Dalton of Lone Bee, producing sparkling mead from New Zealand honey.
- Sera-Belinda Grubb from Mana Kai Honey.
- Joe Harawira from Wai Mānuka, offering a drink made from mānuka honey.
- Kieran Hema from Miraka, a major Māori export business.
- Grant Kitchen from Kāuta Ltd, an e-commerce platform for Māori food and beverage producers.
- Helen Paul-Smith of ŌKU New Zealand, producing native herb teas and creams.
- Sara Smeath from CiRCLR, a sustainability start-up.
- Jackie Stephens from AuOra within Wakatū Incorporated.
- Ross Tuini Manning from Treasure Pot Innovations, focused on Asian fusion products.
During their visit, the delegation will join a young business leaders summit in Thailand. Ethan Jones from the Asia New Zealand Foundation believes this trip will help the group build networks and showcase Māori culture and products. With Southeast Asia’s increasing demand for healthy food due to its growing population, there’s a potential for collaboration and business growth.
