so why do Māori disproportionately endure power poverty?
He created a power company to help vulnerable whānau. Now, Ezra Hirawani is fighting to keep his dream alive. Jehan Casinader reports.
Ezra Hirawani, the man leading a quiet revolution in the power industry, is dressed by Kmart. Every few months, he buys a fistful of black, white and grey T-shirts. A pair of shorts completes his work outfit, and he’s confident enough to rock up to meetings with high-powered executives.
“When I started in business, I decided to be fiercely pono. That means authentic. I can’t hide behind a flash suit or big words. Some people say to me, ‘You should dress up, because people will take you more seriously’. If I chuck on a shirt, I’ll do it because I respect you. But I won’t wear it to impress you.”
With his understated style, Hirawani flies under the radar – but he has a fascinating story to tell. The 29-year-old is the co-founder of Nau Mai Rā, New Zealand’s first Māori electricity retailer. His goal is to lift Kiwis out of power poverty, and his methods are unconventional.
Link to article and video: Many of our energy assets are built on Māori land, so why do Māori disproportionately endure power poverty? | Stuff.co.nz
