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Maori language advocate Pania Papa has been appointed to the the Maori language commission, Te Taura Whiri i Te Reo Maori, replacing Evelyn Tobin.
Maori Afairs Minister Pita Sharples says she has extensive experience in Maori language education and broadcasting, and she was also a member of the independent panel that reviewed the Maori Language Strategy in 2011.
Board chair Erima Henare and member Te Awanuiarangi Black were reappointed.
New census data shows the number of Maori speakers is on the decline, despite the resources being put into the revitalization of the language.
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