High Profile Business Leaders Confirm Support For Indigenous Economic Summit

New Zealand business leaders have confirmed their attendance at Ōhanga ki te Ao – the indigenous economic summit hosted by Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po, on Saturday 29 November 2025.

Experienced board chair and director Dame Therese Walsh says the summit is a significant opportunity to attract global investors to New Zealand with a focus on partnerships with Māori investment projects that deliver long-term, sustainable outcomes.

“There is a lot of international capital looking to invest in projects that deliver a broad set of outcomes, underpinned by unique values such as those expressed in Te Ao Māori.

“Māori take a long-term, intergenerational view that is attractive to global investors who are looking to make a positive impact through their investments. This includes projects that deliver for future generations and for the environment.”

Morrison Partner and Infratil Chief Executive Jason Boyes says the economic summit is a unique platform showcase the strength and innovation of Māori enterprise to the world.

“This summit is a timely opportunity to connect international investors with the vision and capability of Māori business leaders.

“At Infratil, we recognise that enduring success is built on strong values and a commitment to longterm, sustainable outcomes. Māori enterprises exemplify these principles, taking an intergenerational approach that resonates with global investors seeking positive impact.

“We believe the summit will spark new partnerships and ongoing conversations, unlocking significant opportunities for Māori asset owners and businesses. Overcoming the challenges of scale in New Zealand requires global capital and collaboration, this event in Hamilton is a catalyst for that growth.”

Ōhanga ki te Ao is an invitation-only summit that will be hosted at the University of Waikato on Saturday 29 November.

Alongside the summit is a Māori business expo called Kohinga Koha which denotes the concept of exchange for mutual benefit. The Expo is designed to showcase the very best of Māori and other indigenous businesses and will include Business–to–Business and Business–to–Consumer enterprises.

© Scoop Media