Te Reo Māori
Why have Māori Language week?
Māori Language Week is a specific time every year to focus on and encourage the use of Māori language.
When did Māori Language Week start?
During the early 1970s it was identified that the Māori language was in a state of serious decline - it was in danger of dying out. On 14th September 1972, a 30,000 signature Māori language petition was presented to Parliament by Hana Jackson of Ngā Tamatoa and Lee Smith of Te Reo Māori Society. That day was the forerunner to Māori Language Day (now celebrated annually on 14 September) and, from 1975, became Māori Language Week. Have a look at Waiwhetū School bilingual unit
Who is it for?
In the past, Māori Language Week has targeted Māori language speakers, encouraging them to use the language more often and in more places. In 2008 the theme is Te Reo i te Kāinga - Māori Language in the Home The overall aim is to encourage all New Zealanders to
kōrero Māori at home. Not sure where to start? Here are some ideas to help you begin.
I'm not Māori, why should I learn Māori?
Māori language is an intrinsic part of New Zealand culture and history. Knowledge of Māori language provides a greater understanding of the history of New Zealand. Correct pronunciation is an important step in learning a language.
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