The Federation of Māori Authorities is warning Covid 19 could hit the Māori economy by half a billion dollars.
The Māori economy relies heavily on primary industries and tourism, both of which are taking massive hits as the virus disrupts exports to China and international travel.
Federation chair Traci Houpapa said the fall our for Māori is an urgent concern.
“Our people are feeling it, not only from a business perspective but also in terms of employment and labour,” she said.
“And then further, when you consider that these primary industry impacts from corona are hitting our regions – the flow on effect is to our communities.”
The Māori Council estimates the Māori economy has been hit by between $100-$200m but Mrs Houpapa said that is conservative.