Old practice inspires campaign to promote Maori

Tu Tangata, Issue 2, 1 October 1981, Page 15

Old practice inspires campaign to promote Maori

TE REO MAORI/Maori Language

The idea that the old people used to teach the tuis to talk has inspired John and Maureen Waaka, from Rotorua, to launch their own campaign to encourage and stimulate the use of Maori in everyday life. They have come up with the novel idea of wearing a badge carrying an invitation to “speak to me” in Maori. John Waaka said the idea was to encourage conversation in everyday life and to provide a link between the learning institutions, like university and schools, where the language is taught, and the person on the street.

He said the idea came from speaking to two people who were eager to try out their newfound skills in Maori but who were unable to find anyone to practice on. “Hopefully it will remind people to speak when they see the badge,” he said. The badges are at present available in Rotorua, Hamilton and Taupo but it was hoped they would eventually be on sale throughout the country. Anyone wishing to buy a badge contact John Waaka, PO Box 443, Rotorua or phone 81-714 Rotorua.