Passion and pride were palpable at the Māori and Pasifika Business Network Pō Whakanuia event on Thursday.

Local Māori and Pasifika business owners gathered at Top Shelf for an evening of networking, connection and celebration as they cast their eyes toward the future.

Ake Accounting chief executive officer Tania-Rose Tamati kicked off the evening with a welcome, followed by Pacific Growth Services director Aifai Esera sharing his purpose in business. Both companies supported the event.

Tauranga-based Pacific Growth Services was established four years ago by Mr Esera to help Pacific businesses realise their true potential across the Bay of Plenty.

Mr Esera said the Samoan proverb “o le tele o sulu e maua ai figota” best described the drive that underpins his business. Translated, it means “my strength does not come from me alone, but from many.”

The Wai Mānuka was flowing as chief executive Joe Harawira spoke about the inspiration behind starting the premium non-alcoholic beverage brand, which infuses mānuka honey and lemon with sparkling water.

The business was started by “three Māori boys” – Mr Harawira and two of his mates – to create a beverage that reflects the taste of Aotearoa and the spirit of connection.

He shared insights into the company’s expansion into American and Asian markets, including how much international customers value Māori culture.

There were emotional moments as Mr Harawira reflected on how Wai Mānuka had grown while remaining true to its roots.

The international market was also a topic discussed by Lloyd Rakaupai, Māori and Pasifika business leader at GHD.

Ezra Schuster, Regional Public Service Commissioner for Waiariki Bay of Plenty, gave an inspiring speech about the power of community and the importance of locally led initiatives.

“We don’t build businesses, we build communities,” he said.

Impromptu speeches were given by Dr Reuben Collier MNZM and Whakatāne Mayor Nandor Tanczos, with the night finishing off with decadent kai and more networking.