A message from our Manukura

Wow, hasn't 2025 been full of highs and lows! Throughout the constant change, I’m so proud of this movement’s ability to stand strong this year – our suppliers, buyers, kaimahi and stakeholders have stepped up in a way that I couldn’t have imagined was possible in January. We’ve seen sold out events, new partnerships with University of Auckland, Waitomo, The Selwyn Foundation and the Clare Foundation, additional online kōrero support for suppliers, strengthening of our verification processes, a new Amotai team structure to prioritise buyer relationships, our first impact evaluation completed (out early 2026), launched a new website and made digital leaps and bounds for the future investment in our directory (to be revealed next year).

Supplier diversity is only as strong as the people who use it. Only as strong as the buyers that open up their opportunities via our matchmaking services. Only as strong as the suppliers who engage in procurement processes and activate their networks.

So, my mihi is to all of you who stepped up – we see you and we appreciate it. When we open the door to more diverse businesses, we all benefit. More local jobs, more resilient supply chains, more equitable communities, and a stronger, more sustainable economy.

That’s what Amotai is about, using the everyday act of procurement to deliver extraordinary impact.
 

But for now… it’s time to take a much deserved rest. We'll see you in the new year, refreshed and ready to continue our pursuit of an inclusive Aotearoa for all.

Ngā mihi o te wā Hineraumati.

Anna-Jane Edwards