The role of Te Puni Kōkiri is principal policy advisor to the Government on Māori outcomes.
Te Puni Kōkiri (Ministry of Māori Development) is a government agency who works within government and communities to achieve our vision of Thriving Whānau.
The wellbeing of whānau, hapū and iwi is central to the future wellbeing of Aotearoa (New Zealand). The very broad role of Te Puni Kōkiri, our access to information and ability to make connections, make us ideally placed to spark innovation. We will work to bring innovation in carrying out our key roles:
- Leads work towards policy and legislative changes, as well as innovative approaches that will deliver improved outcomes for Māori. Two examples are our leading work to revitalise te reo Māori and supporting Māori land owners to use their whenua for their wellbeing.
- Influences the work of others by working in partnership and bringing Māori voices to decision-makers. For example, this includes working alongside other public sector agencies to reduce the number of tamariki Māori in poverty and State care.
- Invests with Māori to pursue opportunities, including through funding and partnerships. For example, this includes supporting whānau to establish papakāinga, to build homes and communities, and strengthening connections.
As shown in the following diagram, being able to perform these roles successfully relies on our ability to engage meaningfully with whānau, hapū and iwi, and to partner with other public sector agencies.
