Colin Ambler/cvnznews.com
The Green Party says it’s time to secure the future of te reo Māori “ake, ake, ake” — forever — with a major funding commitment aimed at strengthening the language in homes, schools, and communities across Aotearoa. Co‑leader Marama Davidson announced the plan during Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori, calling the language a taonga that deserves proper investment.
Under the proposal, a Green‑led Government would put an extra $50 million a year into te reo Māori initiatives. That adds up to $200 million over four years, with the money split between two key areas:
- $30 million a year to help teachers continue developing their reo skills, ensuring schools have confident, capable educators;
- $20 million a year to strengthen Te Taura Whiri and Te Mātāwai, organisations that support iwi, hapū, and communities to grow the language at a grassroots level.
Davidson says the current Government has cut back funding and created a “culture war” over the use
of te reo Māori, leaving many communities without the support they need. The Greens argue that if New Zealand wants te reo to flourish, it must be backed with real resources.
But what does this mean for everyday New Zealanders?
More reo in schools means kids — Māori and non‑Māori — grow up hearing and using the language naturally. Stronger community programmes mean whānau can learn together, and local initiatives can thrive instead of struggling for funding. And a healthier reo ecosystem supports cultural pride, identity, and connection — things that benefit the whole country, not just Māori.
Te reo Māori has survived because generations fought to keep it alive. The Greens say this funding is about making sure it doesn’t just survive, but grows — confidently, proudly, and permanently.
