Stronger partnerships, lasting impact: GHD’s Māori business services
GHD’s Māori Business Services bring cultural insight and technical expertise together to deliver projects that honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and reflect Māori values. Embedded across our markets, these services help clients achieve sustainable, community-led outcomes.
Across Aotearoa New Zealand, the way we work with iwi Māori, Māori organisations and communities continues to evolve. Our Māori Business Services are at the heart of this evolution and present a way for us to work collaboratively, creatively and respectfully with partners to deliver projects that make a difference.
Guided by ō mātau rautaki Māori (our Māori strategy) and grounded in mātauranga Māori (knowledge), our approach is about walking alongside communities, understanding their aspirations, and creating solutions that reflect culture, strengthen connections and honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi). These principles support all that we do; embedding cultural grounding and sustainability at the heart of every solution we deliver for clients and communities.
From supporting resilient asset development and integrating te reo Māori, to carrying out cultural assessments, our Māori Business Services help clients deliver solutions that are practical, effective and meaningful for the communities they serve. Māori Business Services offer more than technical expertise, they provide a pathway to projects that are culturally inclusive, socially responsible, and environmentally sustainable, supported by dedicated expertise at the intersection of relationships, culture, planning and delivery. By partnering with GHD, clients can:
- Build trust with iwi and Māori communities.
- Deliver projects that meet regulatory requirements while respecting cultural values.
- Achieve outcomes that are resilient, future-focused, and aligned with Te Tiriti principles.
GHD’s Regional General Manager for New Zealand/Pacific, Siobhan Hartwell, says the launch of our Māori Business Services reflects an ongoing journey for the organisation. One grounded in listening, learning and creating outcomes alongside our clients that genuinely benefit people, communities and the environment.
“We’re constantly evolving,” she says. “Seeing the impact we’re making already is incredibly rewarding and it’s the kind of work that makes me excited about the difference we can continue to achieve together with our clients and partners.”
GHD’s Māori and Pasifika Business Leader, Lloyd Rakaupai, emphasises that authentic partnership requires intention and consistency. “Meaningful partnership doesn’t happen by accident,” he says. “It starts with how we choose to show up. For us, that means leading with respect, staying curious and committing to doing things the right way. We’re on this journey alongside our clients and partners, building relationships that support enduring, positive outcomes.”
With Māori Business Services now formally launched, GHD remains committed to deepening relationships, enhancing project outcomes, and supporting clients to deliver meaningful, place-based impact across Aotearoa New Zealand. It’s a commitment to partnership and to a future where projects are stronger, more resilient and shaped collectively.