Ministry of Māori Development

Te Puni Kōkiri is a government department in Wellington that focuses on Māori policy and operates regional offices throughout the country. The organization serves as the chief policy advisor on matters affecting Māori communities and their development needs.

The department was established in 1991 through the Māori Development Act, replacing earlier government bodies that had managed Māori matters. This founding represented a shift toward a more integrated approach to Māori policy and community support.

The ministry supports Māori language use and traditional arts in its day-to-day operations and community programs. Visitors can observe how these values shape the work and spaces throughout the organization.

Visitors can learn about funding opportunities for Māori projects and access information on training and development programs. Staff members are available to answer questions about community initiatives and available resources.

The name te Puni Kōkiri translates to 'a group moving forward together,' expressing the core philosophy of collective advancement. This naming choice reflects how collaboration and shared progress guide the organization's mission and approach.