Speech judge objects to Maori language

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 265, 29 November 1988, Page 1

Speech judge objects to Maori language

An an ti -Maori language comment from one of the judges at the recent Waimarino primary schools speech competitions has upset the Ohakune Maungarongo Marae. During the contest judges wrote comments on each competitor's speech, with the aim of guiding the young speakers in their future public speaking. One of the children introduced his speech with a welcome in Maori which he then translated into English. He then continued with the main part of his speech in English. The judge's comments were not broadcast but were written on the report. The report read: "In a predominantly English speaking country I object to being spoken to at length in Maori." There was no other comment on the boy's

speech made by the judge concerned. The boy concerned was visibly very upset when he read the comment, while still at the competition venue. A Waimarino teacher, who did not wish to be named, said the matter was for the Ruapehu International Training - in-communications Club, who supplied the judges, and the Marae to settle. The teacher understood the Marae did plan some action over the report. A Maungarongo Marae spokesperson, who also did not wish to be named, confirmed that there was some action planned. The spokersperson said they were not in a position to say what that action would be. Marae leader Matiu Mariekura was not available for comment when the Bulletin sought information on the matter.