BUSINESS CONCEPTS
These are provided as concepts to demonstrate the application of the “Mauri Model”, and as a creative outlet. If you have any ideas you would like to gift to the project please used the Contact Us form or our socials (links at the bottom of the page).
BUSINESS CONCEPT #322 - MYCELIUM ECO-FRIENDLY PACKAGING FACILITY (STYROFOAM ALTERNATIVE)
A plant growing compostable packaging from mushroom root structures (mycelium) on agricultural waste, replacing styrofoam in the local logistics chain.
This venture establishes a "bio-facturing" facility in Te Tai Tokerau that grows high-performance, custom-moulded packaging using fungal mycelium and agricultural by-products. We serve regional exporters and manufacturers by providing a carbon-negative, home-compostable alternative to expanded polystyrene (styrofoam).
The Problem: Styrofoam is a high-entropy "thermodynamic failure"—it takes seconds to use but centuries to break down, leaching microplastics into our whenua and moana. Regional exporters currently rely on these petroleum-based products because they lack local, sustainable alternatives.
The Solution: We are operationalising the "Economy of Life Force" by using nature’s own glue. By inoculating local agricultural waste (such as corn husks or wood chips) with specific fungal strains, we "grow" packaging into custom shapes. Once used, this packaging can be broken up and added to a home garden, returning its Mauri to the soil.
BUSINESS CONCEPT #313 - CLOSED-LOOP KINGFISH AQUA-FEED
A facility producing high-protein fish feed from Black Soldier Fly larvae fed on local organic waste to supply the aquaculture industry.
This business establishes a nutrient-recovery facility in Te Tai Tokerau that converts organic waste into premium aqua-feed. By leveraging the natural efficiency of Black Soldier Fly larvae, we provide a localised, sustainable protein source for the NIWA Kingfish facility and other regional aquaculture ventures.
The Problem: The aquaculture industry currently relies on high-entropy fishmeal imported from offshore, which is ecologically expensive and vulnerable to supply chain disruptions. Simultaneously, local organic waste from supermarkets and restaurants is sent to landfills, where it generates methane and increases regional entropy.
The Solution: We operationalise the "Economic Pā" by closing the nutrient loop. Our facility uses Black Soldier Fly larvae to process regional organic waste into high-protein feed and nutrient-rich frass (fertiliser). This turns a waste liability into a high-value asset for our blue economy.