FOMA conference sparks talks for Rotorua's future

Representatives of the new Government and local Maori authorities are meeting as they look towards developing a thriving economy in Rotorua.

Today was the first of the three-day FOMA30 Economic Summit at the Millennium Hotel in Rotorua, marking the organisation's 30-year anniversary.

The Federation of Maori Authorities (FOMA) was established to foster and advance the economic interests of Maori authorities, with the idea to collectivise assets and interests to influence government policies and strategies.

The day began with a pohiri followed by speeches from FOMA chairwoman Traci Houpapa and Minister of Trade and Export Growth David Parker.

The purpose of the day was for the new Government, represented by Parker, and FOMA members to begin discussions about their economic and environmental priorities in Rotorua and around the country.

About 300 people attended the event with the majority being FOMA members.

Federation of Maori Authorities chairwoman Traci Houpapa looks forward to working alongside the Government. Photo/Ben Fraser

Houpapa said this year's conference was about celebrating the work FOMA had done over the past 30 years while building towards the future.

"We have always had a deep relationship with government and we expect this to be no different. Our priorities such as climate change and clean waterways are strategically aligned with theirs so we are expecting some good stuff."

Parker said developing relationships with Maori authorities was a "huge priority" for the Government.

"Their priorities and opinions on what needs to be done in this country are matching to ours, so we need to work together to move things forward in the right direction."

Trade and Export Growth Minister David Parker speaking at the FOMA30 Economic Summit at the Millennium Hotel in Rotorua. Photo/Ben Fraser

He said Rotorua's economy was thriving but he thought more could be done to improve the region's economic growth.

"We want there to be economic balance across the country and one way of doing this is to convince people to stay in small cities like Rotorua rather than moving to Auckland which will help the region's economy grow."

Mayor Steve Chadwick said the first day of the conference marked a significant moment for the city.

She said she aimed to set up a further meeting with Parker to ensure the Rotorua Lakes Council was aligned with the government's plans.

Day two of the conference will be held at the Energy Events Centre with Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Crown and Maori Relations Minister Kelvin Davis set to address in the morning.

Registration to the public has been closed for the rest of the conference because it's reached full capacity.