New Zealand’s Māori language commissioner, Prof Rawinia Higgins, has expressed concern over government policies limiting the use of the Indigenous language in the public service, describing it as a risk to the efforts to revive the language. The policies, which include measures like asking staff to primarily communicate in English and stopping funding for language courses, have caused tension between Māori leaders and the coalition government. Despite Prime Minister Christopher Luxon claiming support for te reo Māori, the policies have been seen as downgrading the language’s status in society.
The history of harsh assimilation policies saw the Māori language nearly wiped out, but efforts since the 1970s have led to a Māori renaissance, with one in five Māori able to speak the language proficiently today. Enrolment in tertiary te reo Māori courses has increased significantly over the past decade. However, concerns remain that the current policy settings could have a negative effect on the growth of the language.
Te reo Māori’s popularity is evident with extensive waiting lists for classes, Māori songs topping charts, and the quick sellout of Māori language week merchandise. Despite the challenges, Higgins believes that opposition comes from a small sector of society and that embracing te reo Māori is essential for New Zealand’s identity. She calls for continued efforts to protect and promote the language, emphasizing its importance in the country’s cultural heritage.
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