1.

Is Te Reo Maori important?

Have a think, it was the very first language spoken in New Zealand.

I think it is important.

2.

Kia Ora Koutou Katoa,

My name is Bella Jagusch and I would like to express my view about the importance of Te Reo Maori.

3.

Te Korero- The story of the seven canoes that left Rarotonga and landed in Aotearoa.

4.

The canoes were called, Tainui, Te Arawa, Mataatua, Kurahaupo, Tokumaru, Aotea and Takitimu.  

5.

With the arrival of the Polynesain canoes came a new culture and language to Aotearoa.  They arrived more than 800 years

ago.

6.

Te Reo Maori, the speaking of the maori language was the only language spoken at that time.

7.

When the english ships landed in Aotearoa, more english was spoken than maori and the Maori language and culture suffered.

8.

It is important that we keep maori culture, language and traditions part of NZs culture today - it is important that things like;

9.

Ti rakau -  traditional stick games.

Waka ama - traditional canoeing.

Matariki - the use of stars for navigation.

10.

Hangi - the traditional method of cooking food.

Kapa haka - the traditional song and dance.

11.

These events encourage us to use the maori language.

12.

The more we encourage young people to learn the language, the better chance it will continue on for generations to come.

13.

I hope to continue with the learning of te reo maori throughout my education.

14.

Kia kaha - This is my commitment to keep the maori language alive.

15.

I am hoping we can remember the very first language ever spoken in New Zealand and that we can still celebrate all of the maori traditions for years to come.

Will you help me?

16.

He maha nga mihi,

Many thanks.

By Bella.