Faculty of Engineering represented at FOMA30

The Federation of Māori Authorities (FOMA) 30th Economic Summit in Rotoroa this year saw a strong presence from engineers and scientists.

Earlier this week, eight staff from the Faculty of Engineering were in attendance as part of our strategic relationship with FOMA, with several being there as part of the Science for Technological Innovation National Science Challenges.

As an engineering faculty, being there allows us to form partnerships with Māori enterprises to identify the opportunities and impact technological solutions can have on the pressing issues we face as a country: the future of food, sustainable energy, and clean water.

This was also an opportunity to celebrate the history and impact of FOMA for the past three decades, and to look forward to the plan and future for Aotearoa.

Speakers in attendance included Sir Tipene O’Regan, Waaka Vercoe, Ingrid Collins, Alec Wilson and Economic Development Minister David Parker. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern identified the new coalition government’s intention in her keynote address, with a particular emphasis on not resting until “Māori and non-Māori are true partners in Aotearoa”.

Faculty of Engineering Deputy Dean Professor Bryony James states, “It was humbling to hear the 30 year journey of FOMA, and totally energising to witness the optimism and foresight with which this powerhouse of Maori endeavour is planning for the next 30 years. The opportunities for partnership are truly exciting, and it was great to see such a good turn out from the University of Auckland”.

For more information on FOMA and the impact they’ve made so far, visit:

• FOMA’s official website
• The New Zealand Herald’s coverage of the event
• Pipi Mā’s website
• Whangara Farms, a partnership between two Māori incorporations