Mātauranga Iwi Leaders Group (MILG) was established in the late 2000’s by Tā Toby Curtis and Matua Haami Piripi, within Pou Tangata of the National Iwi Chairs Forum.

The National Iwi Chairs Forum was established in 2005 after a call by Te Arikinui Te Atairangikaahu Pootatau Te Wherowhero VI and Tā Mark Solomon for iwi to collectivise to better protect and advance significant kaupapa. Today, the Forum consists of 85 iwi who meet regularly to share, review and envision for the future.