Just 12 weeks after launching in Wellington, Tātou, part of the Waitapu Group owned by Greg Partington, has launched in Auckland.
The launch event was held at Māori-owned cafe, UpCafe, on the Friday before lockdown.
It demonstrates the increasing interest from companies seeking assistance to achieve the right narrative and messaging through comms, marketing and creative that is co-designed with Māori communities.
Newly appointed CEO Skye Kimura says: “It was only a matter of time until we launched Tātou in Tāmaki Makaurau. We have been so encouraged by the response to our offering in Pōneke (Wellington) and now the interest is definitely coming out of Auckland.
“Tātou is part of the conversation from the start. The days of a cursory lens passing over work are gone. There is no room for tokenism in a society that values authenticity and integrity, and the pace at which we are growing reflects the increased awareness and understanding by organisations that it’s time to get this right, and by getting it right reflects well for their brands and their audiences. Plus, Māori deserve better.”
Caroline Dewe from Alphero, a Tātou client, says: “We’re excited about our partnership with Tātou. Having Skye and her team and their incredible insight to drive what’s good and right for Māori, is long overdue in the Pakeha world. Together we will co-design and produce digital services that deliver a positive impact for all of the people in Aotearoa.”
Artist Graham Tipene says: “As a Māori artist, I’m able to help shape design to ensure elements of our past are brought through to our present. That in itself is pretty amazing.”
Multimedia Designer Eruera Tū, who recently joined Tātou, adds: “It’s cool to be a part of an organisation that thinks in this way.”
