Z Energy has opened a new site in Sylvia Park. Previously a Caltex site, it was given a new name as part of its transition to the Z brand.
Aukaha, the name of Z’s new Sylvia Park site, refers to the lashings that strengthen a waka and hold it together through changing conditions. This also reflects how Z is building stronger connections and bringing te ao Māori into its everyday business across New Zealand.
While iwi have gifted names to Z sites in the past, the process this time was a little different. Z put forward three potential names and asked Ngāti Pāoa to consider which one resonated most strongly with them and the local context. After careful consideration, Aukaha was the clear favourite.
The relationship with Ngāti Pāoa didn’t end when the name was chosen. The iwi supported the opening ceremony, including cultural elements such as karakia, and both sides are looking forward to continuing the relationship beyond this project.
Te Rau Winterburn, Z’s Kaihautū Māori, said Ngāti Pāoa's support and wisdom in the naming process were vital.
He saw businesses as having an opportunity to help normalise te reo Māori in everyday life, while learning from the knowledge and perspectives of mana whenua. For Z, that means showing up as a business shaped by the people and communities served across New Zealand.
Z’s te ao Māori work increasingly also shows up in its customer experience and everyday business. A recent coffee and conversation initiative during Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori encouraged customers to order their coffee in te reo Māori, with support and resources available to help them, and a free coffee in return.
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