CHRISTCHURCH – A long-running Ngāi Tahu savings program designed to build intergenerational wealth has reached a major milestone, with the iwi-backed scheme now reporting more than $200 million in member savings and tens of thousands of participants.
Whai Rawa, now in its 20th year, has more than 38,000 members, according to figures outlined in a new profile of the initiative. The program encourages regular saving by matching contributions – with particularly strong incentives for children enrolled early in life.
Under the scheme, adults can receive a dollar-for-dollar match on their savings up to a capped amount each year. For children, the incentives are significantly higher: the iwi contributes multiple dollars for every dollar deposited into a child’s account, up to an annual cap and provides an additional kick-start for children registered before their first birthday.
Supporters say the structure is intended to create a habit of saving while strengthening connection to iwi identity and participation. Former Ngāi Tahu chair Sir Mark Solomon’s successor, Lisa Tumahai, described the program as a “flagship initiative” and argued reciprocity is central – keeping members engaged rather than simply receiving distributions.
The program has also supported major life steps, with about $49 million already withdrawn by members for goals such as first-home purchases. Advocates argue this kind of targeted, long-term support can help reduce barriers created by historic dispossession and the ongoing impacts of inequality, while providing a culturally grounded alternative to mainstream financial products that some whānau distrust or find inaccessible.
Despite the growth, leaders involved with Whai Rawa say uptake remains a challenge. Fewer than half of Ngāi Tahu’s estimated membership base is currently enrolled, and board members note some whānau face intergenerational barriers to participating in any savings scheme, including disconnection from the iwi and broader disengagement with financial services.
The discussion arrives as Indigenous communities across the region explore new models of economic empowerment that balance individual needs with collective responsibility. For Whai Rawa proponents, the scheme’s strength lies in building long-term capability — not only dollars saved, but financial confidence and a deeper relationship to iwi institutions.
As Ngāi Tahu looks to expand participation, the program is being framed as both an economic tool and an expression of identity – one designed to help future generations start adulthood with options, stability and a tangible connection to whakapapa.
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