The ancient hero Maui was known for innovation and courage. His incredible deeds are recounted in many places across our landscape. One of those places is our combined region - Te Tauihu. It is the prow of the waka of Maui.

The Te Tauihu Intergenerational Strategy is a new way of thinking about and approaching regional development, so it's easier to work and plan together across Te Tauihu. It's about enabling longer term planning, connecting our decision making and unlocking the potential in our communities for the benefit of our people, our land and our future. 

The initiative was convened by Wakatū Incorporation in partnership with all three councils; the business community; NMIT; and whānau, hapū, and iwi across Te Tauihu. It was backed by investment from the Government’s Provincial Growth Fund, aimed at accelerating regional economic development.

This is a first for Te Tauihu. Never before have we come together to develop a shared strategy that focuses on the wellbeing of our whānau (people), pūtea (economy) and taiao (environment) across the whole region.

The idea is that by all of us – from industry and iwi to communities and councils – working more closely together we can draw on our shared knowledge and resources; increase our influence and potential; and deliver longer-term, interconnected planning that benefits us all. Most importantly, we can ensure decisions that are being made now, will be good for our mokopuna and future generations.

Our regions’ face unprecedented challenges. We can’t face them alone. We are stronger when we come together.