A foundational pillar of Taupō's long-term prosperity — rooted in whenua, whakapapa and intergenerational stewardship. Māori landowners, iwi enterprises and Māori-led innovation play central roles across energy, tourism, forestry and the primary and land-based industries.

In 2025, Māori made up over 25% of total district employment, and Māori-owned businesses represented more than 16% of all local firms — well above the national average of 11%.

Māori Economy

$32B

national Māori economy GDP contribution in 2023, up from $17B in 2018.

A foundational pillar of Taupō's long-term prosperity — rooted in whenua, whakapapa and intergenerational stewardship. Māori landowners, iwi enterprises and Māori-led innovation play central roles across energy, tourism, forestry and the primary and land-based industries.

In 2025, Māori made up over 25% of total district employment, and Māori-owned businesses represented more than 16% of all local firms — well above the national average of 11%.

• A dynamic, growing ecosystem of Māori entrepreneurs and SMEs
• Whenua-based entities active across the rohe
• A leading partner in shaping the district's inclusive, resilient future

13,040

Māori pop.

5,542

Jobs

312

Businesses