Kerikeri Embraces Māori Language and Culture
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Kerikeri is undergoing a cultural revitalization, aiming to create a unique sense of place where the Māori language and traditions are visibly and palpably integrated into daily life.
A Vision for Kerikeri’s Cultural Identity
According to Munro, while signage is part of the revitalization strategy, the primary goal is to cultivate a distinctive atmosphere in Kerikeri. the aim is that visitors will promptly sense a unique cultural presence.
The vision extends beyond mere visibility. Munro hopes that even a simple “kia ora”
greeting in a shop can speak volumes,representing the language,culture,and history of the region. The goal is for people to perceive a tangible difference in Kerikeri.
Te Reo Classes for businesses
A key component of the strategy involves offering te reo Māori classes to local businesses. These classes equip owners and staff with everyday language skills for use in their daily operations.
Rūnanga Initiatives
Over the past six months, the rūnanga has been actively involved in several initiatives, including te reo Māori learning sessions for staff at the Turner Center and residents at Arvida Te Puna Waiora. They have also developed curriculum packages supporting place-based learning through te ao Māori,community kapa haka classes,cultural education programmes,and support for Kerikeri businesses to use te reo Māori daily. Additionally, they established Te Amo Pūtoro, the first council-owned māra hūpara playground.
Celebrating Cultural Revival
“Our kaumātua tried to keep the language alive and now we doing it again and we should all be celebrating it,”
said Munro.
Visual Representation of Culture
The strategy includes showcasing artwork that reflects the town’s strong Māori influence, further extending the impact beyond spoken language, according to Munro.
Bilingual Strategy Across New Zealand
Kerikeri’s bilingual strategy is part of a broader initiative by the Department of Internal Affairs, also implemented in other centers like Ōtaki, Rotorua, Whakatāne, and Whangārei.
According to a 2023 report by Stats NZ, 29.3% of Māori adults can speak te reo Māori, highlighting the ongoing efforts to revitalize the language (Stats NZ 2023).
Council Initiatives
The council is increasing the use of te reo Māori in its spaces, including rebranding its name and logo.The establishment of Te Pae o Uta and Te Pae o Waho policies has been central to integrating te ao Māori within the council.
Te Pae o Uta provides council staff with guidelines to enhance the inclusivity of te ao Māori in their work. Te Pae o Waho is a te reo Māori and tikanga training programme for staff and contractors, with over 173 staff members enrolled to date.
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