Signing of MOU with Parininihi ki Waitōtara
On 15 September 2026, Te Tumu Paeroa hosted Parininihi ki Waitōtara (PKW) for the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between our two organisations. The MOU establishes a basis for collaboration that supports the aspirations and long-term interests of the beneficial owners of whenua Māori across Taranaki.
Grounded in shared values and a commitment to intergenerational wellbeing, the MOU provides a flexible framework for the organisations to identify and pursue areas of mutual benefit.
Parininihi ki Waitōtara Incorporation
PKW is a Taranaki Māori incorporation established in 1976 to administer 20,000 hectares of whenua Māori across Taranaki. Within this wider landholding, PKW actively manages more than 4,150 hectares, primarily through the farming operations of PKW Farms.
PKW’s story is grounded in its mandate to care for whenua for collective benefit. It carries this legacy forward by strengthening the management of ancestral land, protecting and growing assets, and pursuing commercial, environmental and cultural excellence. By investing in a range of interests, its people, sustainability initiatives and strong partnerships, PKW works to create enduring outcomes for its owners.
Relationship with Te Tumu Paeroa
The relationship is strategically aligned through both organisations’ respective connections to whenua Māori. PKW brings deep knowledge of the whenua, owners and communities of Taranaki, while Te Tumu Paeroa contributes nationwide experience, networks and expertise in whenua Māori administration. These complementary strengths provide a basis for locally informed collaboration that recognises the enduring relationship between people and whenua and supports the aspirations of owners.
The relationship between Te Tumu Paeroa and PKW has developed over several years through kōrero about where our interests and mahi intersect. “This MOU allows us to work together on initiatives that advance our shared interests. By drawing on the expertise, networks and insights of both organisations, we can deliver strong outcomes for whenua, whānau and future generations,” said Dr Charlotte Severne.
“The opportunity for both organisations to come together and work towards a common purpose is certainly a privilege. We’re excited about the true potential this approach can achieve that delivers greater benefits to the owners we serve,” said Aisha Ross Te Rau Matomato/CEO of Parininihi Ki Waitōtara.
Initial areas of shared interest include whenua-related initiatives, connecting whānau with whenua, and sharing GIS and mapping information. “The intention is not to lock either organisation into a prescribed work programme, but to create an enduring hononga within which specific opportunities can be considered together on a case-by-case basis. We look forward to continuing to build our relationship with PKW and exploring areas where our expertise and interests align,” said Dr Charlotte Severne.