Overview
RŌA was founded by Teahooterangi Pihama and Awhina Rangitutia-Pihama to create space for bold thinking, cultural integrity and economic transformation. With experience across banking, insurance, risk, governance, strategy, Māori economy and public commentary, they established RŌA to bring kaupapa Māori and commercial discipline into the spaces where decisions are made.
Mission and focus areas
RŌA helps organisations create strategies that shift cultural capability into economic opportunities. The firm focuses on three primary pillars: Rautaki (Strategy), providing bold strategy with clear direction and measurable outcomes; Ōhanga (Economy), helping organisations unlock economic opportunity and build commercial pathways grounded in kaupapa; and Ahurea (Culture), helping organisations strengthen culture and embed kaupapa Māori in ways that are purposeful, respectful and enduring.
Structure and governance
RŌA was founded by Teahooterangi Pihama and Awhina Rangitutia-Pihama. The organisation provides thought leadership and consultancy, bringing commercial discipline into spaces where decisions are made. It works with a range of organisations across banking, whenua, kaupapa Māori, social impact, media and enterprise.
Programs and offerings
The organisation’s offerings include reviewing Māori access to home and business lending, designing mātauranga Māori education modules for environmental groups, and shaping intergenerational heritage strategies. RŌA also provides procurement and supplier insights to improve Māori and Pasifika participation, cultural safety wānanga, and kaupapa Māori internal governance reviews. Additionally, they offer a sustainable outcomes and impact framework toolkit for Māori-owned organisations. As part of their commitment to the Māori economy, RŌA offers two Māori pakihi or start-up ventures a free half-day strategy session each quarter.
