Our philosophy
Our philosophy focuses on the principle of relationships; being a connector and to bridge the gap between Te Ao Māori and conventional practices. To build capability our mahi follows three key principles:
At Ārewa, relationships are at the heart of everything we do. We act as a connector, bridging Te Ao Māori and conventional practices to create solutions that are both innovative and culturally grounded. Our approach to building capability is guided by three principles:
Cultural Integrity: We embed Māori values and knowledge into strategies, plans, and policies. A deep respect for te reo Māori and tikanga Māori ensures our mahi reflects authenticity and strengthens cultural understanding.
Collaborative Engagement: True excellence comes from working together. We engage at every level, listening to communities and leaders to align aspirations and create shared pathways for success.
Adaptive Growth: Continuous improvement is central to our work. We see change as an opportunity to innovate, build resilience, and deliver sustainable outcomes for organisations and communities.
What we do
Ārewa partners with organisations to deliver simple, effective solutions to complex challenges. We apply innovative and sustainable thinking to create operational excellence through policies, plans, and strategies that honour and integrate Māori values and knowledge.
Our services include:
- Strategic Partnerships
- Engagement
- General Project Management
- Māori Capability Development
- Leadership Development
- Contract Management
- Change Management
- Shared Services Contracting
- Environment Project Management
What we want to achieve
- Strengthen and grow the Māori economy
- Contribute to sustainable regional development
- Build strong, collaborative relationships and ways of working
- Use shared models to drive growth and deliver services
Our Values
Through the delivery of our services we will instill and promote:
Whanaungatanga | Relationships
Whanonga | Inspiring
Ukaipotanga | Resilience
Rangatiratanga | Empowerment
Our Head Team
Sacha MacDonald
Kaiwhakahaere
Ko Maamari Toku Waka
Ko Whakatere Toku Maunga
Ko Waima Toku Awa
Ko Tuhirangi Toku Marae
Ko Nga Puhi Toku Iwi
Ko Mahurehure Toku Hapu
Ko Aotea te waka
Ko Turi te tangata ki runga
Ko Taranaki te maunga
Ko Waingongoro te awa
Ko Ngāti Ruanui me Ngaruahine nga iwi.
Sacha has over 20 years’ experience in business management, human resources, capability development and accounting. Frequently called upon for organisational capability, recruitment and human capital development projects.
She combines strategic insight with practical execution, using business modelling and environmental scans to identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and guide sustainable growth. Her philosophy centers on developing people within the business, building capability for long-term success. Passionate about Māori business, Sacha champions approaches that empower individuals and strengthen communities.
Chan Collin
Kaiwhakahaere Pou Tangata
Ko Maungapōhatu te Maunga
Ko Ōhinemataroa te Awa
Ko Mataatua te Waka
Ko Tūhoe te Iwi
Ko Whānau Pani ko Ngāti Tawhaki ōku hapū
Ko Ōhotu me Nāhina ōku Marae
No Rūātoki tōku mama engari I whanau mai au ki Heretaunga
Chan has worked in the Māori economic development space for the past decade. She held the co-position as Regional Business Partner on its inception in the Hawkes Bay region. Has lead and been advisor for a number of Mana Whenua Projects. She has supported 150+ SMEs, with business support and advocacy. Utilising partnerships between both Māori and non-Māori government agencies.
Chan is a certified decision-maker under the Ministry for the Environment’s Making Good Decisions programme, supporting high-quality decisions under New Zealand’s Resource Management Act (RMA). Chan brings expertise in environmental and planning processes, with a strong focus on issues important to Iwi Māori. Her three-year certification reflects her commitment to best practice and professional development. Known for impartiality, clear communication, and integrity, Chan helps councils and communities navigate complex challenges with care.
Our Partners
Our Networks
