9 Jul 2012

New Maori research unit achieving 'considerable success'

6:35 am on 9 July 2012

The deputy director of Waikato University's Maori research unit, says it's achieved considerable success since being formally launched last October.

Maui Hudson says Te Kotahi Research Institute's aims are to promote innovation, well being and inspiration and improve the contribution of university research to iwi development.

He says the institute has done quite well in attracting external funding for projects.

Mr Hudson says both the Health Research Council and the Maori Centre for Research Excellence have agreed to provide financial support.

He says the current economic climate means there's a lot of competition by universities and crown research institutes for research funding.

Mr Hudson says the institute is making every effort possible, to link in with iwi groups in Waikato, Bay of Plenty, the East Coast and Hawke's Bay, and find out what research projects they may want undertaken.