Summit focuses on Maori

Maori economic development and "the huge head of steam" already built up around it are the key to Far North and national economic growth, the Government believes.

Prime Minister Helen Clark told a Far North district economic summit at Omapere, in south Hokianga, that New Zealand could not compete globally and expect prosperity if one group of the population was not up to its full economic potential.

She told the gathering of Far North community, business and iwi leaders that the chance now existed to enter into new growth strategies and partnerships.

Far North Mayor Yvonne Sharp, whose council organised the summit, said the district's future depended on harnessing young Maori talent.

An innovative kingfish farm had recently been developed in the Parengarenga Harbour as a result of a partnership with a local iwi incorporation.

Ideas from workshops run during the one-day summit will become part of a Far North District Council economic strategy.