Maori Language Week

This week has been Maori Language week (Te Wiki o te Reo Maori).
It has now been 31 years since the Maori language Act was introduced, making te reo Maori an official language of New Zealand (alongside English and New Zealand sign language).
Just over 50% of the Opotiki population identify as Maori. Travelling further afield, there are many settlements with the central focus of the Marae to be seen.
We are lucky to have two stores that sell Maori artworks and other items of interest - He Tohu Aroha (a sign of love) and Tangata Whenua, both on the main street (Church Street).
Pop in with a kia ora or tena koe.
It would be great if we all made the effort to celebrate this official language of New Zealand all year round. 

​He reo e korerotia ana, he reo e ora ana - A spoken language is a living language.