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Māori Language Week

Immerse yourself in the richness of New Zealand's heritage – Māori Language Week! Speak the words, feel the spirit, celebrate the culture.

Monday

14–20

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATESeptember 14-20

OBSERVED INNew Zealand

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYIndigenous

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Join us in embracing the vibrant culture and history of New Zealand during Māori Language Week, which commences on September 16. This engaging celebration emerged in the 1970s as a response to concerns about the decreasing usage of the Māori language. It's now grown into a nationwide movement, connecting people of all backgrounds around the beautiful Māori language, known as 'te reo Māori'. This event is more than just speaking new phrases, it's about feeling the impact of language, connecting with the community and embracing Māori heritage. Let's dive in and not only speak the words but feel the spirit and celebrate the culture!

TIMELINE

Māori Language Week Timeline

First Māori Written Language

The Māori language, or 'te reo Māori', first appeared in written form in a hymn book.

Treaty of Waitangi

The treaty, also known as Te Tiriti o Waitangi, was signed, recognizing Māori language and customs.

English Dominance

An education act was passed making English the only language taught in schools.

Te Reo Petition

The Te Reo Māori Society presented a petition to Parliament calling for the teaching of te reo in schools.

Māori Language Week

The first Māori Language Week was established by the Māori Language Commission and celebrated in New Zealand.

Official Language

The Māori language is recognized as an official language of New Zealand through the Māori Language Act.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Māori Language Week

Learn basic Māori phrases

Start your day off by learning basic Māori phrases and greetings. From "Kia ora" (Hello) to "Ka kite anō" (See you later), incorporating these phrases into your daily communication is a fun way to immerse yourself in the language and culture.

COOK

Cook traditional Māori food

Try your hand at Māori cuisine. Many traditional Māori dishes are enjoyed by New Zealanders nation-wide, such as the hangi, a meat and vegetable feast cooked in an underground oven, and rewena bread, a popular Māori bread made using a potato starter.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in Māori art workshops

Art is a significant part of Māori culture, with carving and weaving being two key forms of Māori art. Attend a local workshop or watch online tutorials to learn traditional techniques while appreciating the beauty and depth of Māori artistry.

WATCH

Watch Māori films and listen to Māori music

Immerse yourself in Māori culture by watching films and listening to music in the Māori language. Pick a few movies, such as "Whale Rider," "Once Were Warriors" and "Boy," to get a window into Māori stories, or tune into radio stations that play Māori music.

JOIN

Join a local Haka workshop

If there’s a cultural center or Māori community near you, check if they’re running haka (traditional Māori war dance) workshops. Not only will this give you the chance to learn the dance but you'll also dive deep into understanding its rich history and symbolism.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Māori Language Week is Important

We engage in meaningful community experiences

Through workshops and community activities - like learning the traditional Māori war dance, the haka - Māori Language Week fosters unity, understanding, and respect among diverse communities. It's a heartwarming occasion that draws people closer together through shared experiences and learning.

We learn a new language

Māori Language Week gives us an opportunity to learn and use the Māori language, also known as te reo Māori. It's a unique and beautiful language with a rich history that adds depth to our multicultural experience.

We appreciate Māori culture

By immersing ourselves in Māori cuisine, arts, films, and music, we gain a deeper appreciation for the richness of Māori culture. We can celebrate their heritage and creativity, showing respect for the importance of preserving cultural diversity.

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