In welcoming this timely, innovative and important snapshot of Māori-Irish business links, I would firstly like to recognise the contribution of the author, Shane Minogue, and the Irish Business Network of New Zealand which commissioned this work with the support of the Embassy of Ireland in Aotearoa New Zealand.

The author has done more than provide us with an overview of existing links, he has contributed to our understanding of our respective cultures, a key platform from which to build closer relationships across a multitude of shared interests, particularly in the business sector.

As Minister for Overseas Development and the Diaspora, I would like to place on record my deep gratitude to the many interlocutors and Friends of Ireland who have assisted in the preparation of this report, sharing generously of their insights and knowledge.

One of our favourite sayings in the Irish language is ‘ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine’ or as a similar saying puts it in te reo Māori – ‘He waka eke noa’.

The phrase reminds me of our inter-dependency and in turn encourages us to be sensitive and understanding of others, something which I believe has only become more important in recent times.
It is a phrase that I know has guided and underpinned the work of the Embassy of Ireland since its establishment in 2018. Since that time, the deepening of dialogue and understanding on inter-cultural issues has been a particular priority, including as the focus of the recent Embassy Summer School, held in partnership with the Delegation of the European Union and drawing our mutual experience as island nations. A further significant milestone in our shared journey will be reached with the forthcoming publication by Te Herenga Waka Press of the te reo Māori version of Brian Friel’s Translations, the first major Irish literary work available in the language.

So in this context, I see this IBNNZ report very much as a valuable and critical step in our journey to build closer mutual understanding, giving us a firm platform from which we can build on the goodwill, empathy and natural affinity between our people and to enhance our shared future.

Sláinte. Kia Kaha,.

Minister Colm Brophy T.D.