A new study by Statistics New Zealand has found Maori authorities are investing more money in their employees compared to businesses in the rest of Aotearoa, Radio New Zealand reports.
The research was undertaken as part of Tatauranga Umanga Maori, a long-term project analysing Maori authorities and businesses.
The report shows the amount Maori authorities spent on salaries and wages increased by almost 9 percent in the 2012 financial year, compared with a 4.5 per cent increase for all industries.
A Statistics New Zealand spokesperson said Maori authorities spend a larger proportion - 21 per cent - on salaries and wages for their employees than all industries combined, which amounts to 18 per cent.
Jason Attewell said they take a more long term view than other businesses.
Attewell said the most important thing for authorities is the sustainability of their assets for future generations, and he said some of that tikanga feeds into the way they operate their businesses.
