Using an indicator matrix to determine the correlations and relationships between Māori agribusiness drivers

The report outlines an indicator matrix that assists Māori agribusinesses in prioritising their goals to maximise their potential across values. It is based on a detailed survey which identifies the key attributes of successful Māori agribusinesses.

This report covers the survey design and indicator development. A previous report outlined the literature review, the interviews and the thematic analysis of the interviews. The pillars and domains outlined in that report were:

Four key pillars – the most important Māori principles of action that shape and constrain the practicalities for Māori trust and incorporation farms – were determined. These are:

1. whai rawa – the principle of financial profitability;
2. kaitiakitanga – the principle of protecting the environment;
3. mana whakahaere – the principle of leading well; and,
4. whānaungatanga – the principle of caring for the community.

Five key domains – the most important yet conflicted areas that determine the success or failure of an operation – were delineated. These are:

1. financial capacity – the ability of a trust or incorporation to access working capital;
2. skills and knowledge – the required skills and knowledge needed for the successful operation of a farm and the governance of the board;
3. relationships and trust – the relationships and networks Māori trusts and incorporations require, both internally and externally, with an emphasis on social capital and trust;
4. paths to market – the farm’s access to and use of the supply chain, from processors through to the market, as well as the use of branding and marketing;
5. and, regulatory environment – the influence of key pieces of legislation on the operation, specifically key pieces of law such as the RMA and the Te Ture Whenua Māori Act, as well as the bodies charged with compliance and enforcement of these Acts.