A new Whakaata Māori series is shining a light on the growing number of Tangata Tiriti choosing to learn te reo Māori, offering powerful stories of connection, identity and a shared commitment to the future of Aotearoa.
Matariki Matarau, presented by broadcaster and educator Te Kuru Dewes, follows people from diverse backgrounds as they embark on the journey of learning te reo Māori and deepening their understanding of te ao Māori. Timed to coincide with the Matariki season, the series explores how language can strengthen relationships, build understanding and help shape a more inclusive national identity.
Rather than focusing solely on language acquisition, the programme examines the personal transformations that occur as participants engage with Māori culture, history and values, demonstrating how te reo Māori has become a bridge connecting communities across Aotearoa.
For many years, conversations about te reo Māori have centred on revitalisation within Māori communities. Matariki Matarau shifts the focus by highlighting Tangata Tiriti who have made a conscious commitment to learning the language and embracing its place in modern New Zealand.
Learning te reo Māori often becomes more than simply acquiring a new language. It can reshape how people see themselves, their communities and the country they call home.
Throughout the series, participants explore not only vocabulary and pronunciation but also the values, tikanga and worldview that sit at the heart of te ao Māori.
The series highlights people from different backgrounds who share a common desire to strengthen relationships and contribute positively to Aotearoa’s future.
Despite their diverse experiences, many participants describe similar motivations for embracing te reo Māori and engaging more deeply with Māori culture.
Launching the series during Matariki adds another layer of significance. Matariki is a time to remember those who have passed, celebrate the present and look ahead with hope for the future.
The kaupapa of reflection, renewal and connection closely aligns with the journeys documented throughout the programme.
For Māori, the series reinforces the ongoing revitalisation of te reo Māori while demonstrating the growing support for the language across wider New Zealand society. It reflects the aspirations of many communities to see te reo spoken confidently and naturally as part of everyday life, regardless of cultural background.
As Aotearoa continues its journey towards greater understanding and partnership, Matariki Matarau offers a timely reminder that learning te reo Māori is not only about language—it is about connection, respect, shared identity and the future we build together.
#RadioWaatea #WaateaNews #MatarikiMatarau #TeKuruDewes #WhakaataMāori #TeReoMāori #TangataTiriti #Matariki #TeAoMāori #LanguageRevitalisation #Whakapapa #Kotahitanga #Aotearoa #MāoriLanguage #SEO
