The Government has allocated $30 million to 30 initiatives nationwide aimed at unlocking the economic potential of Māori-owned land.

Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones said another $40m of applications were currently being assessed.

The money comes from a $100m fund for Māori landowners, drawn from the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF), which was announced at last year's Waitangi Day commemorations.

Announcing the fund last year, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said access to capital was a challenge for Māori landowners as the status of their land meant commercial banks were less willing to lend to them.

"I'm pleased that through the PGF, we're in a unique position to be able to support these landowners," she said.

KAVINDA HERATH Shane Jones said the fund would "unleash the economic potential" of Māori-owned land.

Research released in 2013 found about 80 per cent of Māori freehold land was underutilised or unproductive.

Seven of the initiatives are based in the Northland region and together will receive more than $6 million.

Northland's Waima Topu B Ahu Whenua Trust will receive funding for pasture reinstatement, like scrub clearing, fertilising and fencing.

Whangaroa Ngaiotonga Trust Farm will be able to carry out remedial work to bring their land in line with optimal farming practices.

Nationwide, other landowners were forming collectives with neighbouring landowners to increase the commercial viability of their land, Jones said.

"This will unleash the economic potential of their land and lead to improved productivity, greater returns for their beneficiaries and increased local jobs," he said.