Factors Contributing to Successful Consultancy with Maori Farmers in New Zealand

INTRODUCTION Maori, the indigenous people of New Zealand, comprise 14% of the total population (Statistics New Zealand, 2001), and Maori land is approximately 1.5m hectares (5.6% of the total New Zealand land area). The balance of land in New Zealand is either Crown or General Land. Maori land is administered under the Ture Whenua Act 1993 (Maori Land Act). This Act provides the legal basis for the creation of incorporations and various trusts used to manage land held under multiple ownership by Maori. Maori people are also able to own or lease land held under General Land status, but land classified as Maori land is owned by family and extended family groupings. The area of Maori land has increased in recent years as land is returned to Maori owners under Treaty of Waitangi settlements.