Ngai Tahu leader Mark Solomon says the latest population projections underline the importance of training the Maori workforce.
The Ministry of Social Development says up to 10% of the workforce could be aged over 65 by 2051, as baby boomers continue working to keep the economy growing.
Mr Solomon says the reality is more likely to be that taxes on Maori workers will be needed to pay the pensions of the large number of Pakeha retirees.
He told Waatea News that this comes about because the median age of Maori men is about 14 years younger than Pakeha and women 12 to 13 years younger.
