Investments
Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa Trust have commercial entities, that are set up to protect and grow our assets. Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa, focuses on investments that deliver long-term benefits and value.
Tātau Tātau Commercial Limited Partner, E Tipu, manages the majority of assets. The Trust is also a 50% shareholder in forest companies with two other iwi.
By prioritising sustainable development and strategic asset management, E Tipu and our forest companies ensure that investments not only generate immediate economic returns but also contribute to the enduring prosperity of whānau, hapū, and Iwi o te rohe o Te Wairoa. This approach ensuring that the investments continue to provide value for future generations.
Wharerata Forest Limited
Wharerata Forest spans approximately 8,000 hectares of pine production forest, straddling the boundary between the Gisborne District and Hawkes Bay. The forest is predominantly steep terrain, centred around two significant catchments: the Kopuawhara catchment (about 6,000 hectares) and the Tunanui catchment (about 2,000 hectares). Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa holds a 50% share in the land alongside Ngāi Tāmanuhiri. Juken New Zealand Ltd (JNL) currently leases the land and owns the trees and improvements on Wharerata. Paritu Station, purchased in 2022, covers around 1,100 hectares and serves as our flagship property for sustainable land use in Tairāwhiti, featuring a mix of production and permanent forest, including both pine and native trees.
Patunamu Forest Limited
Patunamu Forest consists of two distinct parcels: Patunamu, which covers 3,251 hectares and is located approximately 30 kilometres northwest of Wairoa, and Kume Pakarai, which spans 848 hectares and is situated about 15 kilometres northeast of Wairoa. Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa holds a 50% share in the land with the Crown until Ngāti Ruapani settles their claim. Tātau receive revenue from Juken New Zealand Ltd through a forestry licence.
Mahia Beach Resort
Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa Trust’s commercial entity, E Tipu, has bought the Mahia Beach Motel and Holiday Park renamed as Mahia Beach Resort, ensuring this beach-side holiday destination stays in local hands. This significant investment secures a vital Wairoa asset contributing to the local economy and preserving a cherished spot for both national and international visitors.
The 3-hectare beachfront property will continue to provide affordable accommodation, keeping its status as a favourite for generations of whānau and tourists alike. Upgrades have been completed, and further upgrades are planned to enhance the quality of stay and add value to the community.
E Tipu views this acquisition as a mokopuna investment, focusing on long term growth and lasting benefits.
Wairoa Star
E Tipu has bought the Wairoa Star newspaper, a cornerstone of the community for over a century. This investment ensures the publication continues to serve the Wairoa community, filling the void left since its closure in 2024.
This strategic investment preserves a 103-year-old asset crucial for informing the community, supports local employment, and maintains a media platform. The newspaper will continue as a printed edition alongside a robust digital platform.
The digital strategy includes a push for digital subscriptions, aiming to widen the audience and deepen income. By using digital platforms, the Wairoa Star will provide timely, and accessible news to a broader audience, ensuring even those outside the immediate distribution area stay informed.
The acquisition aligns with Tātau commitment to community leadership. By keeping local ownership, the Wairoa Star will continue to share important local news and foster community connections for years to come.
