New Zealand government refreshes te reo Māori revitalisation strategy

The New Zealand Government has announced a refresh of the Maihi Karauna strategy, aimed at revitalising te reo Māori. Minister for Māori Development Tama Potaka stated the strategy seeks to ensure the language is “visible, valued and voiced” through 2040. The plan focuses on increasing the number of speakers and clarifying the role of the public sector in supporting language growth through a coordinated action plan.

In contrast, the Green Party has introduced an election policy promising an additional $200 million investment over four years to support language initiatives. Co-leader Marama Davidson proposed allocating $30 million annually toward teacher education and professional development, alongside $20 million for Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori and Te Mātāwai. The Greens argue that sustained, long-term funding is essential for the language to flourish in homes and communities.