Te Wiki o te Reo Māori celebrated across New Zealand

Various organizations across Aotearoa New Zealand are observing Te Wiki o te Reo Māori (Māori Language Week) from September 14–21. The 2026 theme, “Ake, Ake, Ake – A Forever Language,” focuses on “Te Reo Towns,” highlighting the role of communities, workplaces, and families in sustaining the language.

One NZ is participating by displaying the phrase “Kia kaha” on its network banner and hosting cultural sessions. These include events in Wellington to discuss the history of Te Whanganui-a-Tara and in Christchurch to share the significance of Ōtautahi. The company is also engaging its Ngā Kākano network through activities in Auckland and online.

Educational institutions, including MIT and Unitec, are hosting campus activities such as traditional games, weaving, singing, and food making. Officials from these institutions emphasize that the week serves to normalize the use of te reo Māori in everyday life, encouraging participation regardless of a person's fluency level.