Leading Māori language advocate Professor Tom Roa has been formally recognised for decades of service, receiving a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit at Government House.
The honour acknowledges his lifelong contribution to the revitalisation and promotion of te reo Māori, as well as his influence in shaping education and language policy in Aotearoa.
Professor Roa has been a prominent voice in the movement to recognise te reo Māori as an official language, playing a key role in advocacy that helped elevate its status nationwide.
He has also been instrumental in the development and growth of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, which has become a major annual event encouraging the use and celebration of the language across the country.
Widely respected in academic and community circles, Professor Roa’s work has spanned teaching, research and public leadership, helping strengthen the place of te reo Māori in everyday life.
Today’s investiture marks a significant milestone, recognising not only his achievements but the ongoing importance of language revitalisation efforts for future generations.
Image: Governor General FB
