Every year, Aotearoa New Zealand proudly celebrates Epetoma o te reo Māori Kūki ‘Airani – Cook Islands Māori Language Week. This special week shines a light on the vibrant language, heritage, and cultural traditions of the Cook Islands community. In 2025, Cook Islands Language Week will be held from 3rd to 9th August, guided by the theme: ‘Ātui’tui’ia au ki te raurau a tōku matakeinanga – “Connect me to the offerings of my people” (Ministry for Pacific Peoples).
Why Do We Celebrate Cook Islands Māori Language Week?
Cook Islands Language Week provides an opportunity for all New Zealanders to learn, engage, and celebrate the rich traditions and identity of the Cook Islands. The language is more than just words – it carries the history, music, stories, and wisdom of generations. Celebrating this week helps ensure that te reo Māori Kūki ‘Airani remains strong for future generations (Auckland Museum).
This Year’s Theme: Connection to Community
The 2025 theme, ‘Ātui’tui’ia au ki te raurau a tōku matakeinanga, encourages Cook Islands people to reconnect with their roots, share knowledge, and celebrate their collective identity. It’s a reminder of the importance of language in strengthening families and communities, and in passing down cultural treasures (Ministry for Pacific Peoples).
Ways to Celebrate
1. Learn Common Greetings and Phrases
Simple greetings such as “Kia Orāna” (hello), “Meitaki” (thank you), and “Aere rā” (goodbye) are wonderful ways to participate. Resources with more phrases and language cards are available for download during the week (Ministry for Pacific Peoples).
Simple greetings and phrases:
- Kia Orāna: Greetings / Hello – (MP3) – Listen
- ‘E no’o rā: Goodbye, I’m off now – (MP3) – Listen
- Meitaki Maata: Thank you – (MP3) – Listen
2. Join Events and Workshops
Many schools, libraries, and community centers host Cook Islands song, dance, craft workshops, and storytelling sessions. Participating in these activities is a great way to experience the joy and vibrancy of Cook Islands culture (Auckland Museum).
3. Explore Cook Islands Art and Traditions
Learn about tivaevae (traditional quilts), Cook Islands drumming, and Ura (dance) as part of the celebrations. These creative expressions are central to the cultural fabric of the Cook Islands and are often featured throughout the week (Auckland Museum).
4. Bring Cook Islands Language Week into the Classroom
Teachers can incorporate Cook Islands stories, crafts, and history into their curriculum. There are teaching resources and ideas available to help educators engage students in meaningful learning (New Zealand Curriculum).
Keeping the Language Alive
Cook Islands Māori is one of the precious Pacific languages spoken in New Zealand, yet it is at risk. By celebrating Cook Islands Language Week, we help to keep the language alive and strong – not just for Cook Islanders, but for all New Zealanders to appreciate and enjoy (Ministry for Pacific Peoples).
