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Message from our CEO
Tena tatau nga uri o Porourangi,
The past few weeks have been challenging for many across our rohe, particularly for whanau in Te Araroa and Wharekahika who have experienced significant disruption following the recent weather event. We acknowledge the stress, uncertainty, and fatigue that comes with these situations and send our deepest aroha to all those affected.
As always, our whānau have responded with strength, care, and collective leadership. Hapu and marae leads, kaimahi, volunteers, and local response teams mobilised quickly drawing on hard-earned lessons from Cyclone Gabrielle. The level of preparedness, coordination, and communication seen on the ground has made a significant difference in how this event has been managed.
While access remains restricted in the Matakaoa area, essential services are operating. Lifeline access is being actively managed, critical supplies continue to be delivered, power has largely been restored, and health services (including medical and mental health support) are available onsite and through visiting teams. Road access remains limited to essential travel only, and we continue to urge whanau to follow official guidance.
While we are still in a state of emergency, central and local government resources are well deployed and servicing most of the need across Matakaoa. Te Rūnanganui o Ngati Porou is working closely with hapu, Civil Defence, and partner agencies to identify gaps and provide targeted support. We remain focused on supporting whānau most impacted. A dedicated bank account has been established for those wishing to offer monetary koha, alongside government and agency-led welfare assistance currently available to affected communities.
I humbly thank everyone who has contributed, checked on each other, and led with a strong sense of kotahitanga, manaakianga and aroha during this time. Our collective strength continues to carry us through.
Ngati Porou Mānuka Honey Update
Mānuka Harvest Update
Honey harvest day on the East Coast is always something special. This week, we removed the supers using escape boards — a slower, gentler method that allows the bees to move down naturally, reducing stress on the hive and supporting their ongoing health. It’s an approach that reflects our commitment to working with the bees, not against them, while preparing the honey for the next stage.
Harvesting in Wharekahika brings a rhythm shaped by the land itself. Remote, quiet, and unhurried, it allows the work to be done with intention. Fresh air, steady hands, and time create space for careful decision-making and respect for the environment we operate in.
Each harvest is guided by a long-term view — protecting the land, supporting strong hives, and honouring the mahi involved. It’s about sustainability, patience, and ensuring this place and this practice can continue for generations to come with the land, the bees and the mahi involved.
Te Ihi Expands Into Global Markets
Highlights from Our Middle East Market Development Trip
As Te Ihi, our premium health and wellness brand, prepares to launch into its first international markets — Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates — our team recently completed a focused market research and development trip across both regions.
The objective of this visit was to conduct structured retail audits, establish new distributor and retail connections, and strengthen collaboration with our government partners at New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE). Over seven days, we carried out in-store category and pricing assessments, met with key distribution partners, and captured valuable content to support our upcoming marketing campaigns.
Trip highlights included meetings with Nahdi Pharmacy, Saudi Arabia’s largest pharmacy chain; Almunajem Foods, the country’s leading food distributor; and Chemist Warehouse UAE, which has recently expanded to four new stores in the region.
We’re excited to share more updates as Te Ihi continues its journey into new international markets — stay tuned for what’s next.
Taking the Beach back to the Paddock
Surfing For Farmers
Nāti Growth is proud to be a sponsor of Surfing For Farmers, a kaupapa that gives farmers and growers time out from the all-consuming demands of rural life. It’s a chance to step away from the paddock, get into the ocean, enjoy fresh air and exercise, and connect with others who understand the farming journey.
Surfing For Farmers recognises the importance of wellbeing and self-care. By creating space to reset, gain perspective, and switch off from the daily grind, this initiative helps strengthen individuals and rural communities alike.
Local sessions:
• Tuesdays – Midway Beach (beside the surf club), from 5.30pm• Thursdays – Tolaga Bay, from 5.30pm
All welcome — no surfing experience needed.
Ngati Porou Wear
Ngati Porou Wear is more than just clothing — it’s a celebration of identity, whakapapa and pride for Ngati Porou.
Created by Ngati Porou for Ngati Porou, each design reflects who we are and where we come from.
We have something for everyone, from kids to adults, office accessories, thoughtful gifts, and exclusive printed Maunga Hikurangi photos.
Follow our socials below for monthly competitions.