2025 Māori Business Awards
Congratulations to all Finalists and Recipients!
A huge thank you to everyone who came together to celebrate — our incredible community, supportive whānau, talented finalists, and all the outstanding awards recipients. The atmosphere at Ōtepoti's Sargood Centre on Saturday 11 Oct was nothing short of electric — filled with pride, joy, and an inspiring celebration of Māori business excellence.
Together, we continue to honour the resilience, creativity, and success of our Māori entrepreneurs, lighting the path for generations to come. Let’s keep lifting each other up and driving our Māori businesses toward even greater heights. Ka mau te wehi!
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2025 Business Awards
Applications and nominations for the 2025 KUMA Māori Business Awards 2025 are now CLOSED!!
Thank you to the record number of businesses that have sent in your business story. The judges for 2025 are: Antony Deaker (Ngāi Tahu), Jeffrey Broughton (Ngāi Tahu), and Rachel Butler (Tangata Tiriti) with Karen Roos (Ngā Puhi) as advisor. We are grateful for the time and expertise they are committing to our community - ngā mihi nui ki ngā rangatira mā.
The timeline for judging and announcements is:
21-31 August: series of meetings of the judging panel
3 September: Judges’ decisions advised to the Board
12 September: Finalists and other applicants contacted
15 September: Finalists announced
20 September: People’s Choice Award votes open (all Finalists eligible)
10 October, 5pm: Finalists and Sponsors’ Event
11 October, 5.30pm: 2025 Awards Gala and Dinner
We so look forward to this opportunity to celebrate and showcase Māori businesses across the Otago/Southland takiwā. These awards recognise excellence in innovation, sustainability, and leadership within our Māori business community.
Whether you’re a startup, a whānau-owned enterprise, or an established industry leader, we encourage you to join us on Saturday 11 October for a celebration of southern Māori business.
Applications closed 20 August 2025, 5pm
Take a look at previous recipients
Download a copy of the 2023 Awards Compendiums
Ngā mihi to our sponsors and supporters
Why apply for the KUMA 2025 Māori Business Awards?
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Elevate your business profile and gain prestige as an award-winning Māori enterprise.
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Connect with influential leaders, investors, and fellow Māori entrepreneurs.
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Open doors to new opportunities, partnerships, and market expansion
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Highlight your contributions to sustainability, culture, and Māori economic development.
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Honour the dedication and achievements of your team and whānau.
Why Nominate a business for the KUMA Māori Business Awards 2025?
Your nomination could:
Provide visibility and recognition to a deserving business.
Encourage the continued growth of Māori entrepreneurship.
Celebrate the achievements of businesses that embody Māori values and aspirations.