Wed, Apr 3, 2024 3:15 PM
Te Reo Māori revitalisation symposium returns to Wairau, inspirational line up of speakers confirmed
The symposium name, Te Kaiaotanga o te Reo, was gifted by renowned linguist Sir Tīmoti Kāretu. With a rich history of contributions to Māori language revitalization, Sir Tīmoti serves as a beacon of inspiration, igniting the passion of both present and future generations in support of Kaupapa Māori. Photo credit: Melissa Banks Photography
Contributor
The highly successful Te Kaiaotanga o Te Reo symposium is set to return in May, drawing on the enthusiasm and support of the community in Te Tauihu-o-Te-Waka-a-Māui.
Following the resounding success of the previous two sold-out events, Te Kaiaotanga o Te Reo is back in 2024, after the inaugural symposium was held in Wairau in 2021 and subsequently in Whakatū in 2022.
The organisers of Te Kaiaotanga o Te Reo, Ngāti Apa ki Te Rā Tō and Rangitāne o Wairau, are optimistic that this year’s symposium will continue to inspire individuals and communities to engage in the revitalisation efforts of the Māori language.
"Te Tauihu-o-Te-Waka-a-Māui has borne witness to the silent erosion of our precious Māori language, echoing the struggle faced by many regions across Aotearoa", says Corey Hebberd, Kaiwhakahaere Matua (General Manager) at Rangitāne o Wairau, who highlights the importance of collective effort in revitalising te reo Māori.
"Now is the time for our nation to forge paths towards revitalisation, safeguarding te reo Māori for the future.
"Rangitāne o Wairau and Ngāti Apa ki Te Rā Tō are excited to bring this kaupapa back to the Wairau for the benefit of our hāpori."
“Kotahitanga is key to our success, and our combined endeavour to safeguard and rejuvenate te reo Māori is paramount", agrees Rowena Smith, acting Kaiwhakahaere Matua (General Manager) at Ngāti Apa ki Te Rā Tō.
"By pooling our efforts and drawing upon our collective knowledge, our goal is to kindle a sense of optimism within our community, guaranteeing the preservation and thriving of te reo Māori within our rohe.”
The symposium name was gifted by renowned linguist Sir Tīmoti Kāretu. With a rich history of contributions to Māori language revitalisation, Sir Tīmoti is a shining light of inspiration for current and future generations for kaupapa Māori.
This year’s symposium will feature key speakers; Hana O'Regan, Oriini Kaipara, Āwhina Twomey, Tākuta Ferris & Iriaka Epiha-Ferris, Janis and Ant de Thierry, Korohere Ngāpō, Hareriua 'Ruia' Aperahama, Te Ahu Rei, and Kahu Ropata, each bringing their unique perspectives and expertise to the discussion.
Te Kaiaotanga o Te Reo will take place at the ASB Theatre in Wairau on Thursday 30 and Friday 31 May.
Tickets are now available for purchase via www.tekaiaotangaotereo.co.nz.
