An essential part of this initiative is Te Tauihu, Kaupapa Here Hukihuki –Te Reo Māori, the Te Reo Māori Policy. The draft of this policy went out for consultation in February this year and is intended to help the Council celebrate te reo Māori and support the revitalisation of the language within Council activities and across the city.
Professor Rawinia Higgins, Tumu Ahuei, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Māori), Dr Vincent Olsen Reeder, Pukenga/Lecturer, Te Kawa a Maui and other Te Kawa a Maui staff developed a detailed online submission on the draft policy and Dr Reeder gave a follow-up oral submission on behalf of the University.
Dr Reeder also attended a two hour hui with Council and Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori representatives, which included a discussion on developing a language plan to help implement the policy.
Dr Reeder is passionate about language planning and has expertise in this field. He was able to offer advice on developing a plan that outlines specific actions under key outcomes.
“Language planning means ensuring that we create an ideal language environment and processes for communities,” said Dr Reeder.
“Revitalising a language is an intergenerational journey, involving constant review and improvement. A successful language plan needs to be able to take this into account and ensure there are processes which can keep the plan going even when it meets obstacles.”
Dr Reeder is pleased with the University’s contribution to the policy.
“Most of what we discussed at the hui was included in the final report on the proposal, which the Council's City Strategy Committee will consider in June.”