In 2022, following the acquisition of orchards in the Hawkes Bay and in Gisborne, we decided that some of the names that the orchards were being called, did not suit our whakairo Māori, which related to persevering and refreshing names to ensure they were either historical Māori names, or that they reflected names that were closely aligned to the Iwi of the district or region; such as what has happened with Tukituki for instance, which was actually called Hanoi (Japanese name). We are currently completing a brief report that encapsulates some of the old names; and how they have been re-born as a result of this innovative cultural revitalisation initiative.
We have also worked diligently to establish relationships with the iwi located in the regions within which we have acquired orchards. For instance, we have worked closely with Ngāti Kahungunu in Hastings, we have established an relationship with Ngāti Rehia in Kerikeri and we recently established a relationship with Te Whānau-a-Taupara, Whilst these names have emerged and the journey has begun, it is important that we keep connected to these iwi more regularly and meaningfully.