The 2026 FOMA Economic Forum is proudly hosted in the rohe of Te Arawa, whose leadership and enterprise have played a significant role in shaping and growing the Māori economy. From geothermal and tourism to whenua-based development, Te Arawa continues to demonstrate the strength of Māori-led economic innovation and stewardship.
About the Forum
The FOMA Economic Forum is the Annual National gathering hosted by the Federation of Māori Authorities, bringing together leaders from across the Māori economy to discuss strategy, governance, and long-term economic development.
"Mai Maketū ki Tongariro"
this whakataukī reflects the ancestral journey of the Te Arawa waka from their landing at Maketū to their inland settlement toward Tongariro. As the theme of the 2026 forum, It symbolises movement, unity and leadership.
Forum Programme:
Friday 12 June – Te Puia, Rotorua
8:30
Whakatau & Opening Address
The summit opens with a formal whakatau hosted by Te Arawa, welcoming iwi from across the motu and setting the cultural and strategic tone for the day.
9:00
Te Arawa FOMA
Exploring the leadership & history of Te Arawa and its enduring contribution to the growth, resilience and success of the Māori economy.
9:30
Te Ao Hurihuri Positioning in a Shifting World
The global environment is changing — economically, politically and environmentally. Māori enterprises must understand these shifts to protect their whenua and grow their opportunities.
10:35
Morning Tea
11:00
Wai Manawa Whenua
Water is central to Māori wellbeing and economic prosperity. This session explores the evolving legal and policy landscape shaping the Water Case - Wai Manawa Whenua
12:00
Trade, Partnership, Pathways and Possibility
Trade and capital are governance choices that can strengthen independence when designed on Māori and Indigenous terms.
1:00
Lunch
2:00
The Te Arawa Economy
This session showcases Te Arawa' enterprise highlighting the strength and diversity of the regional Māori economy, demonstrating how whenua-based development can create intergenerational prosperity.
2:45
Growing Our Leadership
The future of the Māori economy depends on how intentionally we grow and support our people into leadership.
3:15
From Summit to Strategy
The closing session brings together insights from across the day and translates them into clear direction for Māori land enterprises and organisations.
3:15
Farewell &
Taonga Handover
Closing the forum with reflections, acknowledgements and the ceremonial taonga handover, marking continuity and shared responsibility.
6:00
FOMA Awards Dinner, Te Puia
We invite guests to dine, enjoy entertainment, and connect with peers in a relaxed evening setting that celebrates our collective achievements as FOMA.
Speakers to be Announced..
Registration Options:
Standard Rate
(Member)
$875
+ GST
Includes:
- Full Access to the Summit Programme
- Morning Tea, Lunch and refreshments
- Entry to Keynote and panel discussion
- Networking Opportunities with Māori Business Leaders
- FOMA Awards Dinner
Standard Rate
(Non-Member)
$1500
+ GST
Includes:
- Full Access to the Summit Programme
- Morning Tea, Lunch and refreshments
- Entry to Keynote and panel discussion
- Networking Opportunities with Māori Business Leaders
- FOMA Awards Dinner