1 September

Registrations open for Christchurch test of Maori speakers

Speakers of Maori based in Christchurch will have the opportunity to test their language proficiency next month.

Two examinations will be held on 6 October to recognise and acknowledge the Maori language capability of speakers in the public sector and others interested in finding out where they are at on a national framework, says Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Maori (Maori Language Commission) Chief Executive Haami Piripi.

“The Level Finder Exam (LFE) gives candidates a general indication of their level of language knowledge and the Public Sector Maori (PSM) proficiency exam designed specifically for people and agencies who use Maori language in the public sector workplace,” says Haami.

“Public sector organisations in particular have a key contribution to make towards promoting and supporting reo Maori as a living language and an ordinary means of communication. Due to the increasing interest from public sector agencies, awareness of the importance of reo Maori continues to grow and it is now more widely used at work and in the community,” says Haami.

The PSM provides benchmarks for both government agencies and Maori speaking employees by identifying the Maori language skills needed in the public sector and providing the candidate with an acknowledgement of their skills and ability to contribute to the agency’s Maori language capability.  

Registrations to sit the examinations are close on 20 September. To find out how to register email: gaylene@haemata.co.nz  or visit Te Taura Whiri website http://www.tetaurawhiri.govt.nz/english/services_e/language_proficiency.shtml

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For media comment: Haami Piripi, Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Maori,               04 4710244