Māori groups have the potential to be the movers and shakers of Rotorua's economy. However, Shane Jones is urging caution before moving into ventures like helping the now closed Tachikawa mill.
130 workers were made redundant after the Tachikawa mill went into receivership last week. The mill has been operating from this site since 1989, with 36% of its timber was being exported to Japan. The closing of the mill took centre stage in Parliament today, with fears for the workers being the issue.
Security has been set up at the Tachikawa site in Rotorua. Union representatives hope for an answer for its members by next week, as meetings continue with receivers.