Earlier this year, Whāriki Te Tai Tokerau set out on an exciting journey: Te Kōtiri Pakihi hīkoi. Today, we're beyond thrilled to share the success of our workshop series, aimed at empowering and supporting Māori businesses across Northland. 

"We're thrilled with the response to Te Kōtiri Pakihi," said Marlene Richardt, Whāriki Te Tai Tokerau's Kaiārahi - Business Navigator, as she shared her excitement. The hīkoi wasn't just another event. It was a coming together of Māori business owners, expert service providers, and representatives from various support networks and agencies. Our goal? To provide a one-stop-shop for advice, funding, support, and growth opportunities for pakihi Māori. 

The workshop series lived up to its promise. Spanning six locations - Dargaville, Omāpere, Kaitaia, Kerikeri, Kaikohe, and Whangārei, Te Kōtiri Pakihi saw over 100 Māori businesses participate, connecting kanohi ki te kanohi (face-to-face) with peers and experts. It was an enlightening exchange of ideas and a deep dive into critical business topics, including financial management, marketing and branding, and innovation. 

But Te Kōtiri Pakihi hīkoi was more than a collection of workshops. It was an inspiring platform for Māori business owners to create networks, gain insights, and access tailored support. Representatives from our partners - Amotai, Te Hiringa, BDO, Poutama, NorthChamber, Ministry of Social Development, and Te Puni Kōkiri - were a crucial part of each workshop, sharing their expertise and guidance. 

The success of Te Kōtiri Pakihi is a testament to the vitality and resilience of Māori businesses in Northland. As we look back at the hīkoi, we are filled with gratitude for the support of our partners and sponsors, and we're eager to witness the ripple effect of the initiative in the growth of Māori businesses. 

At Whāriki Te Tai Tokerau, our commitment to supporting Māori businesses in Northland is unwavering. And Te Kōtiri Pakihi is just the beginning. We look forward to creating more opportunities for Māori business owners to connect, learn, and grow. So, watch this space - together, let's shape the future of Māori businesses in Northland.