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Maori is a Polynesian language, strikingly similar to other Pacific languages such as Hawaiian and Tahitian. Maori developed from the language spoken by the first inhabitants of the Pacific Islands, away from the influences of other language groups. As a result many Pacific Islands share a common vocabulary - up to forty percent - anti have a unique poetry and musicality.

Maori people traditionally maintained an oral history. All knowledge was passed down from generation to generation by word of mouth. The Maori oral tradition is rich in poetry and song, some of which has been written down. Scholars have identified this literature as one of the great poetic traditions of the world. Contemporary Maori continue these traditions, and on marae and at Maori ceremonial gatherings, Maori is always the language used. Speeches are rich with stories, myths, beliefs, and tales of the deeds of ancestors.

Maori is taught in New Zealand schools and universities. In recent years, special Maori kindergartens and schools have developed to ensure the language’s survival. Many artists, writers, and poets bring traditional stories to life in songs, poems, films, plays and other new works composed in the Maori language.

Travelling around New Zealand, you will see Maori names on road signs. Many towns and scenic attractions have Maori names. Some of the names relate to histori.c events or are a direct translation of the area. In the Hawke’s Bay, in the North island, you will find the longest place name in New Zealand;

Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikiiflaung-
ahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu.

Translated it means the brow of a hill where Tamatea, the man with the big knees who slid, climbed and swallowed mountains, who travelled the land, played his flute to his loved one.

Image 22 - New Zealand’s famous place name, Ilawke’s Bay
Maori New Zealanders all speak English, but often you will hear the Maori greeting ‘Kia ora’, and if you visit a marae you will, quickly learn the meaning of other Maori words such as ‘Haere mai!’ (welcome) and ‘kai’ food).

Korero kia rongo i to reo ran gatira.
Speak so that we may hear the divine essence of the Maori language.