(Picture caption: Natu Togiaso wants to expand his business to help support Pacific individuals in the construction industry.)
With 25 years of experience in construction behind him, Natu Togiaso is a seasoned Pacific businessman, driven by a profound desire to support Pacific and Māori individuals working in the industry.
Natu envisions establishing the first Pacific owned company in Christchurch, specialising in road and concrete kerbing construction while also creating pathways for Pacific and Māori workers to rise to leadership positions and ownership roles.
While involved in the construction industry since 1999, it was not until 2003 when Natu specialised in machine-poured kerb and channel concrete laying.
“Just three other companies in Christchurch handle this work, and my business would make four, representing the Pacific community,” Natu says.
Motivated by a sense of responsibility to his family, especially his children, Natu emphasises the importance of believing in one's abilities and turning innovative ideas into action.
Recognising a lack of mentorship and progression opportunities in the construction sector, Natu is determined to bridge this gap for others entering the field.
“I want to share my specialised knowledge with our Pacific peoples, and offer the types of opportunity I never received, so we can confidently fill those managing director, CEO-type roles, especially in the kerb and channel sector.
“Although I learnt from the best, I felt I was also held back from really achieving my goals.
“I adopted the ‘work smarter not harder’ analogy into my work life but earlier in my career as an employee, no one wanted to hear my new ideas or views at the time on how things could be done in a more efficient and easier way.
“Times have changed and will continue to change if we keep sharing our knowledge and experiences with our Pacific peoples.”
Natu's dedication to innovation is evident through a significant investment of almost $100,000 in partnership with a local steel fabricator.
He purchased two customised machines, which not only enhance Natu's company's capabilities but also reflect his dedication to advancing the Pacific community while expanding his business reach.
“The ultimate goal is to grow the business in order to create opportunities at a higher level for our Pacific peoples.”
The Ministry for Pacific Peoples (MPP) Partnerships Lead (Southern region) Ielua Junior Taula has been engaging with Natu since he somewhat hesitantly, reached out to the Ministry, seeking support to expand his business.
“After holding back for years, Natu has decided to take a chance on himself, acknowledging that he is not getting any younger,” Ielua says.
“In pursuit of his ambitious goals, Natu is seeking financial support of $20,000 to help acquire an M-town direct fire melter machine, distinguishing his company as the first Pacific business to excel in this niche.
“Partnerships is committed to supporting Natu by exploring internal funding possibilities, providing advice, and connecting him with established Pacific business networks in Christchurch.
“Building Natu's confidence to navigate these spaces is part of the process, recognising his capability and offering assistance—this is our way of supporting him on this journey.”
The MPP Partnerships directorate builds and maintains relationships with Pacific Aotearoa communities, while also leading the development and implementation of MPP’s engagement strategy to ensure context, aspirations, and perspectives inform government decision making through its policy and programme work.
Visit the MPP website for more information.