As Whanganui hosts the 60th anniversary of Ngā Manu Kōrero this week, the competition stands as a long-running platform that has shaped rangatahi voice, leadership and te reo Māori fluency since 1965.
One of Aotearoa’s most prestigious Māori speech competitions, Ngā Manu Kōrero, continues to inspire rangatahi Māori as the 2025 finals get underway. The annual event, which began in 1965, showcases the art of oratory in both te reo Māori and English, providing a platform for young speakers to share their perspectives on issues that matter to their generation.
This year’s competition has drawn students from kura kaupapa, wharekura, and mainstream schools across the motu, each having already proven themselves at regional heats. The finalists will compete in four key categories: Pei Te Hurinui Jones (senior Māori), Korimako (senior English), Te Rāwhiti Ihaka (junior Māori), and Sir Turi Carroll (junior English).
Ngā Manu Kōrero has long been regarded as a launchpad for Māori leaders, with many past winners going on to careers in politics, education, broadcasting, and iwi leadership. The kaupapa nurtures confidence, critical thinking, and leadership, while keeping alive the traditions of oratory passed down through generations.
Judges have highlighted the creativity and depth of this year’s speeches, which tackle themes such as climate change, tino rangatiratanga, Māori identity in modern Aotearoa, and the future of te reo Māori. Many participants also weave in waiata, whakataukī, and personal narratives, making their kōrero both powerful and deeply moving.
Beyond competition, Ngā Manu Kōrero has become a gathering place for whānau, hapū, and iwi to celebrate rangatahi achievement. Supporters fill the venues with haka, waiata tautoko, and pride, turning each speech into a moment of collective affirmation.
As Aotearoa continues to strengthen its bicultural identity, Ngā Manu Kōrero remains a taonga; uplifting Māori voices, affirming cultural identity, and shaping the next generation of leaders.
