This article was published on 2 June 2016
What do a rugby league legend, the 2014 New Zealander of the Year and the first Māori to land a job at NASA have in common?
..Firstly, they are all involved in high-tech innovation and secondly they are all speaking at an inspiring Māori business event coming to Rotorua in June.
Callaghan Innovation’s second Māori Inspire Event “Matariki X” brings together 14 entrepreneurial speakers, including Tawera Nikau, Dr Lance O’Sullivan and NASA’s Mana Vautier, to share their experiences of success, failure and the importance of innovation with more than 300 participants from around the country.
Callaghan Innovation’s General Manager Māori Economy, Hēmi Rolleston says Matariki X will facilitate collaboration.
“By bringing together a group of very successful Māori in their respective fields we’re fostering the cross pollination of ideas while building connections between the leaders and future leaders of the Māori Economy”.
The theme, ‘Innovation, Inspiration and Overcoming Failure’ will run throughout the day-long event. The confirmed line-up of speakers includes:
Robett Hollis
Rangimarie Hunia
Bailey Mackey
Wetini Mitai-Ngatai
Takurua (Tak) Mutu
Tawera Nikau
Dr Lance O’Sullivan
Steve Saunders
Dr Anna Rolleston
Heather Skipworth
Miriana Stephens
Ian Taylor
Mana Vautier
Jason Witehira
There will also be presentations by Māori Development Minister Hon Te Ururoa Flavell, and Callaghan Innovation’s Chief Executive, Dr Mary Quin.
Matariki X has partnered with Takiwai (Rotorua Māori business network), GHA (Rotorua-based Māori accountancy and consultancy firm) and Poutama to bring this event to Rotorua.
Further information
For more information, read our 
Matariki X factsheet.
Register now
Register online now to attend.