Māori language week celebrated

Dunedin Central Police Station's cafeteria came alive to the sounds of waiata and haka on 26 July, in celebration of Māori language week.

Sergeant Marty Gray, Southern Police District Iwi Liaison Coordinator, says a concert by children from Te Kura Kaupapa Māori O Otepoti was warmly received by all staff.

“The children ranged in age from 5 to 15 with two members of the group recently winning the regional Manu Korero competition,” says Marty.

“The feedback from both the Kura and staff has all been positive, with many staff giving koha to assist the Kura in sending their two children to the National Manu korero competition in Auckland.

“It also allowed staff to see first-hand the positive effects that Te Reo Māori has on children and the resulting achievements that can be accomplished. What better way to celebrate Māori language week?”

Marty says the performance marked the end of a week promoting Te Reo in the district.

“We provided staff with basic Te Reo to use in their everyday roles and also offered Te Reo classes to those staff interested in learning or advancing their skills in this area,” he says.

Members of Te Kura Kaupapa Māori O Otepoti get into a performance at Dunedin Central.