Business NZ & Maori cast a wide net

The Federation of Maori Authorities and the country's largest business network BusinessNZ are joining forces to work more closely together.

The two organisations are signing a memorandum of understanding for a formal relationship to combine their work that aims to enhance the Maori and New Zealand economies.

"BusinessNZ and the Federation have worked co-operatively and collegially with successful results in the recent past," Federation of Maori Authorities chief executive Te Horipo Karaitiana said.

"So we have already identified areas where our organisations might work together more closely to extend our respective influence and to add further value to our members."

The Maori organisation represents a combined asset base of around $8 billion from the 140 Maori businesses it represents.

BusinessNZ is an advocacy group that aims to promote business success and sustainable growth, with thousands of companies associated with it.

"We need to cast the widest possible net and ensure both Maori and non-Maori businesses are involved in the quest for New Zealand's success. 

"This joint work is an exciting new chapter for both organisations," BusinessNZ chief executive Phil O'Reilly said.

- © Fairfax NZ News