Television New Zealand shines at first ever Maori Language Week Awards.
Te Reo Tataki (Television New Zealand) took the top prize, the Supreme Award, at the Inaugural Maori Language Week
Awards held in Wellington tonight.
Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Maori (Maori Language Commission) Chief Executive Haami Piripi in presenting the Supreme Award
paid tribute to the courage to the 1970's Maori language activists like Hana Jackson, without whom the Maori language
may not be as strong as it is today.
"It is appropriate that we hold these Maori language awards today. Since 1972, 14 September has been recognised by Maori
language advocates as Maori Language Day. Tonight we honour the activism that brought about the regeneration of te reo
Maori and celebrate the efforts of many individuals and organisations throughout the country and overseas in promoting
te reo Maori," Haami says.
Winners of the nine awards were:
Te Tohu Tari Kawanatanga (Central Government Award) Te Tari Mahi - Department of Labour Sponsored by Te Puni Kokiri
Te Tohu Mahi Pakihi (Business Award) Te Whare Wanaka o Waitaha - Canterbury University Sponsored by Ngai Tahu Seafood
Te Tohu Hapori - (Community Award) Te Whakaruruhau ki Otautahi - Christchurch Community House Sponsored by Ma Te Reo
Te Tohu Kura - (School Award) Albany School Sponsored by Cinco Cine Film Productions
Te Tohu Ta - (Print Award) Gisborne Herald Sponsored by Pronto Print
Te Tohu Reo Irirangi - (Radio Award) Niu FM Sponsored by Te Mängai Päho
Te Tohu Pouaka Whakaata - (Television Award) Te Reo Tataki - Television New Zealand Sponsored by Te Mängai Päho
Te Tohu Kaunihera a-Rohe/Whare Pukapuka - (Library Award) Nga Kete Wananga-o-Otautahi - Christchurch City Libraries
Sponsored by National Library
Te Tohu Rangatira - (Supreme Award) Te Reo Tataki - Television New Zealand Sponsored by Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Mäori