FOMA was established in 1987 to foster and advance the economic interests of Maori authorities.
We deliver on this purpose by keeping our members informed and connected. We provide pathways and tools for members to develop profitability, performance and sector specific skills.
We provide members with a strong national voice. By regular communication with industry and government, we are able to represent members’ interests on issues of national importance.
Me Uru Kahikatea’ is a whakatauākī (proverb) symbolising strength of unity. It’s what guides us and is our philosophical anchor.
Ko te Kahikatea he rakau tu ki te repo engari, kahore e matotoru te tu kei te repo ke hoki nga pakiaha. No reira, kawhakaritea e Tane me whiriwhiri nga pakiakapakari ana te tu torohika ana. E ai ki, te korero nei “Me Uru Kahikatea”. Tera pea, keite repo tatou e te iwi ma tenei korero tatou e ara ake.
The Kahikatea prefers swampy ground but stability is impaired by this unstable root environment. Therefore Tane ordained that their root systems should intertwine to ensure stability. Thus the saying “Me Uru Kahikatea”. If we are standing on shaky ground, then this proverb is our guide.