October 13, 2017
McGarvey a master of both Maori and English translations
Te Ao Maori is mourning the loss of one of the most influential translators of te reo Maori.
Te Rangi Karaitiana McGarvey of Tuhoe, Ngati Whakaue and Ngati Rangi passed away yesterday. He worked for many years at parliament, ensuring the intention of those MPs who chose to speak te reo Maori were understood clearly by their colleagues.
He was also known to thousands as the voice of live translations at Te Matatini, translating compositions from Maori into English alongside Lewis Moeau of Rongowhakaata who also passed away last week.
Close friend Julian Wilcox says Mr McGarvey was the translator of choice for broadcasters because of his expert skills.
"He was a master of the word in both languages. His skill to be able to break down complicated structures to make it clear for the audience was probably second to none. There are very few people around who have that ability to break things down in simple, clear and precise language," he says.
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