Te Wiki o te Reo maori

Oops, Did I Just Use Te Reo Māori While Trying to Buy Tickets?

Join us in celebrating Te Wiki o te Reo Māori and discover the language’s fun twist on everyday Kiwi life!

As we embrace Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, it's time to delve deep into the heart of Aotearoa’s rich culture and language. With its ongoing revitalization efforts, leading Māori researcher Ella Henry reminds us that the future of te reo Māori is farewelled with resilience. Governments may come and go, but nothing seems capable of holding back the tide of enthusiasm for keeping the Māori language alive. Whether you’re a seasoned reo speaker or someone just starting, there's something magical about hearing the melodic echoes of Te Reo woven throughout our daily lives.

Excitement hits fever pitch as the largest haka attempt in history draws near! At Auckland's Eden Park, the tickets have been snatched up faster than a Kiwi at a summer barbeque. No worries if you’ve already secured yours, as prior ticket holders can score two free spectator passes for every full-price ticket. Couple that with a vibrant showcase during the week, where art and language collide, and you have the makings of an unforgettable cultural experience. It’s not just about the haka; it’s a celebration of our shared heritage that invites everyone to join the fun!

As Te Wiki o te Reo Māori celebrates its 52nd year, New Plymouth District Council has stepped up to bring the community together through a series of exciting events. From exhibitions at Central Library showcasing historical efforts to retain te reo Māori, to the Puke Ariki museum and local libraries embracing Māori culture, there’s no shortage of engaging activities. The more we immerse ourselves in these events, the more we learn to wield our language like a master chef wields a spatula – with flair!

And let’s not forget the quirky charm of using te reo in everyday situations. Have you ever found yourself shouting “Kia tere!” (hurry up!) while juggling your shopping bags? It’s moments like these that make learning te reo Māori not just educational; they infuse a dose of fun into our Kiwi lives. So whether it’s speaking like a local or participating in record-breaking haka attempts, Te Wiki o te Reo Māori is a cause for all of us to rally behind.

During this week, we remember that te reo is a 'forever language', officially recognized since the Māori language petition was presented to Parliament on September 14, 1972. It’s a reminder that with every word spoken, we are adding to the rich tapestry of Aotearoa’s heritage, helping to create a vibrant future for generations to come.

Did you know that the haka was originally created as a war dance to intimidate the enemies? Fast forward to today, and it’s now a joyous celebration of culture, community, and togetherness that brings Kiwis of all backgrounds together. So, let's celebrate this weekend with some spectacular haka moves and a sprinkle of te reo in our conversations!