15 Mar 2012

Maori owned company signs MoU with India dairy group

7:16 pm on 15 March 2012

New Zealand's first Maori majority owned and controlled dairy company says signing an agreement with a large milk processing company in India, is a real boost to confidence.

Miraka Limited only began whole milk powder production last August at its processing plant at Mokai north west of Taupo.

A director, John Paki, was part of a group of Maori business people, academics and artists, who have just attended an international cultural conference in India, as well as exploring business opportunities

Mr Paki says following a meeting with the Gopalgee Group south of New Delhi, which has extensive dairy interests, he signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the company.

He says it's the first step in establishing a long term relationship with a company which produces everything from milk powder to cheese, butter and long life milk.

Mr Paki says Miraka is somewhat humbled being courted by such a well respected member of the dairy association in India.