Ko Wai Mātou

KUMA is an incorporated society and not for profit charitable entity, drawing its membership from the southern Māori business community and organisations supporting Māori economic development. KUMA’s Board is responsible for governance and management of the network and for delivering the annual activities plan.

Ōtepoti  |  Waihōpai  |  Tāhuna  |  Manuherekia  |  Murihiku |  Wānaka |  Central Otago

Ōtepoti  |  Waihōpai  |  Tāhuna  |  Manuherekia  |  Murihiku |  Wānaka |  Central Otago

Our Values

  • We provide opportunties to connect with whānau from all iwi, hapū and rūnanga, and nurture long term relationships and partnerships across the region and country.

  • We believe in and value the power within each of us to create change, uplift others and provide for our whānau and hapori.

  • We believe in the uniqueness and power of mātauranga Māori to enrich our lives.  KUMA supports events and initiatives that uplift and serve the needs of our community.

KUMA – Te Kupeka Umaka Māori ki Araiteuru – was founded in 2005 by Otago based Māori professionals and business people with whakapapa to mana whenua and tangata whenua and strong tangata Tiriti alliances. They knew that the historical achievements and future potential of Māori to contribute to whānau, hapū and iwi hauora and economic resilience could be enriched by creating a network that fostered prosperity by Māori and for Māori.

Our Board

Claire Porima
Tumuaki, Ōtepoti

Celia Crosbie
Wānaka

Janice Lee
Murihiku

Clinton Chambers
Ōtepoti

Karmela Rapata
Tāhuna

Rebecca Banks
Ōtepoti

Maria Rapata
Tāhuna

Corey Ford
Ōtepoti

Join Us

Become a KUMA member and be part of a thriving network where you can grow, share knowledge, and build meaningful relationships. From mentorship to business opportunities, we’re all about uplifting Māori businesses—together.

    • You can be nominated for one of the categories in the annual KUMA Māori Business Awards

    • List your services in the KUMA Māori Business Directory.

    • Connect with a coach or business mentor

    • Learn about national and local opportunities for Māori businesses

    • Take part in business courses

    • Attend our annual KUMA business awards and other events.

    • Get to know other Māori business people

    • Attend networking events – you’ll make new contacts, exchange ideas and expand your support network

    • Connect with business organisations in the region.