Māori Leaders Gather at First National Energy Summit in Taranaki

The inaugural National Māori Energy Summit took place on March 12, 2024, at The Devon Hotel in New Plymouth, drawing approximately 250 participants. This landmark event aims to empower Māori communities in the renewable energy sector, addressing the urgent need for equity in energy access and sustainability.

Jamie Tuuta, chair of Pou Tahua—the economic arm of the Iwi Chairs Forum—highlighted the critical state of the energy system in Taranaki, often referred to as the “energy capital of Aotearoa.” He expressed concern over the increasing energy hardship within Māori communities, stating that the current system is under “significant stress and strain,” which adversely affects both businesses and families.

“The energy hardship continues to grow in our communities,” Tuuta said, emphasizing that while government involvement is essential, national policies alone cannot rectify the “inequities of access, cost, and control.” He called for a collaborative approach to develop initiatives that not only promote sustainable energy solutions but also create intergenerational wealth for Māori.

Tuuta elaborated on the intrinsic connection between energy and Māori culture, referencing the vital roles of the sun, earth, wind, and tides. He remarked, “Our tupuna understood that energy is life,” underlining the cultural significance of energy in Māori society. He urged the development of a national Māori energy strategy that respects the tikanga and tino rangatiratanga of iwi, hapū, and whānau.

“We must move from the sidelines to being on the pitch,” he stated, advocating for increased Māori participation as investors, innovators, and energy generators.

Collective Efforts in Renewable Energy Development

Day one of the summit featured insights from Wharehoka Wano, chief executive of Te Tōpuni Ngārahu, which represents all eight iwi in Taranaki. Wano stressed the importance of collaboration among iwi to advance renewable energy initiatives in the region. He acknowledged Taranaki’s potential for alternative energy sources, including marine energy, while reaffirming the need to protect the cultural and environmental values of the iwi.

The summit serves as a platform for Māori leaders to unite and strategize on harnessing renewable energy resources effectively. With growing global interest in sustainable energy, this gathering marks a pivotal step toward enabling Māori to play a significant role in shaping the future of energy in Aotearoa.

The event will conclude on March 13, 2024, with discussions aimed at outlining actionable pathways for Māori engagement in the energy sector. As the renewable energy landscape evolves, the outcomes of this summit may have lasting implications for Māori communities across New Zealand.