Maori Language Week 2011

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

1. Why have Maori Language week?

• Maori Language Week is a special time every year to focus on and encourage and celebrate the use of Maori language.

2. Who is it for?

• In the past, Maori Language Week targeted Maori language speakers, encouraging them to use the language more often and in more places.  Recent themes for Maori Language Week have included:

• NZ Reo, New Zealand Pride (2003-2004);
• Kai – Food (2005);
• Hakinakina – Sport (2006);
• Tapoi – Tourism (2007);
• Te reo i te kainga – Maori language in the home (2008);
• Te reo i te hapori – Maori language in the community (2009);
• Te Mahi Kai – The Language of Food (2010).

The aim is to encourage all of us to feel proud of the Maori language.  

 
3. I'm not Maori, why should I learn Maori?

• Maori language is an intrinsic part of our culture and history. Language defines a nation and its people and the Maori language helps give Aotearoa a distinct and unique identity. Many of us appreciate this more when we travel overseas and realise it is part of what makes us 'Kiwi'. Knowledge of Maori language also provides a greater understanding of our history. 

4. It's a dying language, isn't it? There isn't really much point in learning Maori language?

• The health of Maori language is now stabilising after decades of decline. The task now is to concentrate on language revitalisation. For the language to thrive, it must be used every day. Statistics show that the Maori population will increase significantly over the next 20 years. In line with this predicted growth, an increased demand is also expected for Maori language classes, from both Maori and non-Maori people. 

5. Wouldn’t it be more useful to know a language which is spoken by people overseas?

• Knowledge of foreign languages allows us to operate in those countries, however knowledge of Maori language helps us to maintain our identity as New Zealanders. For many Maori speakers, it’s also about maintaining their identity as Maori. 

6. Every week should be Maori Language Week, why have one week?

• For many Maori speakers every week is Maori Language Week, and every day is Maori Language Day. Maori Language Week is a chance for the wider community to get involved in Maori language activities and use the language, even if it is something as simple as saying ‘kia ora’.

7. Is Maori really a language for all New Zealanders?

• Yes, it can be. It is part of our identity as New Zealanders. Some New Zealanders may not know it, but it is a language we are increasingly exposed to.

8. It's okay for other people, but don't force it on me!

• Learning Maori language is not compulsory in New Zealand, however, it is an official language of New Zealand and can be used in the courts. Several Government Departments now provide services bilingually.  Many names of people and places are Maori. More Maori words are becoming part of every day speech in New Zealand e.g. kia ora, haka, kai, whanau.

9. I'm too old to learn.

• You are never too old to learn. It's never too late to start.  Give it a go!

10. What can I do to ensure Maori language does not die?

• The best thing to do is use it. This may mean learning Maori, or using what language you have more regularly. If you don't want to learn Maori but want to assist, you can help by supporting and creating positive environments for Maori language to be used.  For example, correct pronunciation is an important step in supporting a language.

11. What resources are available for Maori Language Week?

• We produce several resources each year, including a wallet sized ‘kia ora’ greeting card, t-shirts, a poster and the annual ‘Korero Maori - Give it a Go’ booklet.  For more ideas go to www.koreromaori.co.nz. 

12. Where can I learn Maori?

• There are many places to learn.  Most high schools and tertiary institutions offer Maori language classes. Many community groups offer training to their members e.g. Te Ataarangi, kohanga reo.  Try these organisations in the phone book or online:
• Te Ataarangi
• Local marae
• high school / college
• Polytech
• Wananga
• Universities.