Mana meets Machine: Māori Voices in Tech

In this two-part kōrero, Māori innovators and leaders share their journeys, from start-up beginnings to building enterprises that make a real impact.

Hear how they’re weaving technology, innovation and kaupapa Māori to open up possibilities for people and planet.

A light lunch will be provided, with opportunities to network and explore exhibitions from Māori enterprises.

Part 1: Harnessing technology & innovation for Māori futures

This kōrero brings together Māori entrepreneurs and innovators who are reimagining what’s possible. They’ll share ideas and solutions across tech and explore how kaupapa Māori innovation is sparking systems change and inspiring new futures for business and community.

Lunch and networking

Part 2: Māori creativity driving tech and enterprise

From VR storytelling to digital apps, Māori founders are blending culture, creativity and technology in powerful ways. This session showcases how creative tech is not only growing innovative businesses, but also strengthening storytelling, cultural expression, and opportunities for community impact.

Panellists

Tam Roberts – Head of Business Development at BlinkPay NZ

Tam Roberts is Head of Business Development at BlinkPay NZ, a Māori-founded fintech pioneering open banking in Aotearoa. With extensive experience in business development across the IT and SaaS sectors, Tam has a proven track record in sales, business planning, and people management. He leads BlinkPay’s growth strategy, building partnerships with banks, enterprises, and councils to expand adoption of secure, bank-approved payment solutions. Tam combines commercial expertise with a strong commitment to trust, inclusion, and innovation, helping make payments easier, safer, and more accessible for all New Zealanders.

Maru Nihoniho – Game Designer, Producer & Storyteller

Maru Nihoniho is a game designer and producer passionate about Indigenous storytelling. She believes culture-based games are powerful tools for engagement, learning, and connection. As founder of Metia Interactive, she has written, designed, and developed Māori games including Tākaro (teaching coding concepts), Sparx (teaching rangatahi to manage depression), Māori Pā Wars (a strategic tower defense). She is also the creator and producer of Guardian Maia, an epic tale of a Māori woman navigating a dystopian Aotearoa. Maru’s goal is to create meaningful, culturally rich games that share unique stories with an authentic Indigenous voice.

📌 Please note:
By attending Auckland Startup Week events, you agree to follow our Code of Conduct. We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for everyone.

🎥 Filming & Photography:
Events will be photographed and recorded. Footage and images may be used for promotional purposes. If you have concerns, please let our team know on the day.