Pūhoro is proud to announce a significant milestone in its journey—an extended legacy partnership with Genesis Energy that will see both organisations working together for up to 10 more years. This extension reaffirms a shared commitment to empowering rangatahi Māori into pathways in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and mātauranga Māori (STEMM).

Thanks to Genesis Energy’s support, Pūhoro has been able to introduce its kaupapa into new regions, including Ruapehu, Wairoa, and Huntly—communities closely aligned with Genesis’ operational sites. These regions have historically had limited access to kaupapa like Pūhoro’s, making this expansion a powerful step toward more equitable access to STEMM education and careers.

“We are incredibly proud to extend our legacy partnership with Genesis, an organisation that shares our vision for leading Māori STEMM success,” says Pūhoro Manahautū, Kemp Reweti.

“This commitment reflects our shared desire to deepen the impact we can have in communities, ensuring that every rangatahi, no matter where they come from, can see a future for themselves in STEMM. We look forward to continuing this journey with Genesis and celebrating the transformative opportunities this partnership will create.”

An event to commemorate the partnership was held on 8 May at Genesis’ Auckland office, attended by both executive teams and rangatahi from Ruapehu who are actively engaged in the Pūhoro programme.

Beyond financial support, Genesis plays an active role in Pūhoro’s programme delivery—facilitating hands-on learning at regional wānanga that explore the relationship between mātauranga Māori and the energy sector.

As part of the partnership, Genesis has also committed to eliminating barriers to education through Pūhoro scholarships. These scholarships offer vital support by equipping tauira with essentials like laptops, technology vouchers, and learning resources—ensuring they are well-prepared to thrive in STEMM-related tertiary pathways or employment.

“Most of the roles in Genesis are STEMM-related, and we need a strong future workforce to help us evolve our business to net zero 2040,” says Genesis Chief Wholesale Officer, Tracey Hickman. “We’re especially proud to activate this partnership in the communities closest to our power schemes and support the potential of local rangatahi. By developing the energy innovators of the future, we’re powering a thriving and sustainable Aotearoa.”

This legacy partnership is a testament to the power of aligned values and long-term investment. It continues to create generational shifts in access to high-value opportunities for rangatahi Māori across Aotearoa.

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