Waikato-Tainui supports Maaori language strategy

Te Reo Maaori will be strengthened under the government’s Maaori language strategy, says Rahui Papa, Chairman of Waikato-Tainui tribal executive Te Arataura.

The new strategy gives iwi the opportunity to lead and guide Te Reo Maaori revitalisation efforts. Mr Papa says, “Te Reo Maaori is a taonga belonging to all iwi and Maaori in Aotearoa so it is vital we are part of initiatives which protect and promote this taonga.”

He says, “Initiatives supporting the health and wellbeing of the reo need to align with the hopes and aspirations of whaanau, hapuu and iwi.” Iwi together with Reo Organisations have a chance to work together for the betterment of the taonga. "Together we can do more for the revival and survival of Te Reo. Together we can achieve this."

Minister Sharples has seen that Te Reo is in decline and something must be done now. This Bill will see Iwi and Maaori having an increased say over what has traditional been the sole authority of the Minister of Maaori Affairs. This is a courageous move on the part of the Minister.

The strategy includes the establishment of Te Maataawai, a Maaori governance entity which supports iwi to lead reo revitalisation initiatives while ensuring the government upholds its obligations under the “Te Maataawai gives the seven dialectal regions – identified by the Te Paepae Motuhake Report – and iwi to have a collective say in reo initiatives, including the strategic direction of Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Maaori, Te Mangai Paaho and Whakaata Maaori,” says Mr Papa.

“Under Te Maataawai iwi will be able to further carry out their role as kaitiaki of Te Reo Maaori which, in turn, will enhance various hapuu and iwi dialects and ensure their survival.”

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