The next Labour Government is expected to facilitate the creation of regional Maori economic development groups lead by iwi and hapu to work in partnership with business and public agencies as part of its Maori Development policy.

'Labour is committed to working towards a positive Treaty partnership in the post-settlement era that supports iwi, hapu and whanau to determine their aims, aspirations and success,” says Labour Leader David Cunliffe.

'Labour will help facilitate the creation of regional Maori economic development groups led by iwi and hapū, in partnership with business interests and public agencies.

'The scale that can be achieved by Mori entities working together is the key to accessing international trade markets and fully realising the value of Maori business. Labour will strive to partner with hapu and iwi to create an environment that encourages collaboration and innovation.

'This strategy will start with Mori entities working together at a regional level and will enable a strategic approach to Mori business development, employment and intergenerational planning.

'Labour will explore with iwi and hapū the possibility of working together to establish a Maori innovation and development fund to support Maori business growth and drive a collaborative Maori brand as a part of its economic development strategy,” says David Cunliffe.

'As part of our commitment to Māori development, Labour will ensure that all historical Treaty settlements are completed by 2020, tackle inequality by targeting policies that focus on low to middle income earners and encourage whānau to participate fully in education and life-long learning,” says Labour's Maori Affairs spokesperson Nanaia Mahuta.

'Labour shares the long-term aspirations of Maori and will take up the challenge to equip rangatahi with the skills they need to build a quality life in Aotearoa New Zealand,” says Nanaia Mahuta.