Transitioning to an Indigenous Bioeconomy

Erosion-prone soils and slopes constitute nearly 90% of land in Tairāwhiti. Extreme weather events are accelerating the loss of precious soil and collapsing even mature pine plantations.
Reducing the regional footprint of both pine and pasture is happening whether we like it or not. Job and income losses loom for residents, landowners, and businesses reliant on these sectors.

Urgent diversification is imperative, fostering sustainable industries as indigenous forests are restored to protect the remaining land. New industries need to grow quickly and harness native forest resources without compromising their biodiversity and soil conservation benefits.
To achieve this, local and national stakeholders need a better grasp of opportunities for new industry.

The Tairāwhiti Indigenous Bio-Economy Project will run through 2024 with the aim of consolidating and disseminating information on truly sustainable products and services based on indigenous plants and ecosystems. Our goal is to help hasten commitments for the just transition process based on indigenous innovation.

Tairāwhiti needs to move quickly to look after both the whenua and whānau. We need new industry and employment based around restoring and utilising the indigenous forests required to protect what remains of the land. Te Weu has started profiling some of these opportunities progressing, proposed or possible.

Submit an opportunity