A Maori industry conference will include exploring the potential for iwi to invest in oil, gas and mining opportunities.
The annual meeting is being held by Te Putea Whakatupu Trust, and trust chair Richard Jefferies says mineral exploration is contentious for many Maori.
David Springgate, the head of an Alaskan company successfully involved in the mineral industry, will speak at the conference.
Mr Jefferies says the international Nana Development Corporation is owned by 13,000 indigenous Inupiat in northwest Alaska, employing 11,500 workers.
The conference, being held early next month, will also discuss further opportunities for Maori industry development in fishing and agriculture.
