Nestled among the Rotorua geysers, hot springs and mud pools, Ngāti Whakaue are building reo capability of whānau, one kura reo at a time.
The iwi is dedicated to reo revitalisation and kura reo is a part of a wider offering to the uri, including kura koeke (weekly reo classes for kaumātua), wānanga paepae and wānanga rangatahi. Providing opportunities for whānau to strengthen their reo is part of the wider strategic vision of the iwi, who hope to build a paepae “three rows deep.” These initiatives collectively strive to rejuvenate and sustain the Māori language of Ngāti Whakaue, ensuring its vitality for future generations.
Te Kura Reo o Ngāti Whakaue was established by the iwi trust, Te Taumata o Ngāti Whakaue, to revive and preserve te reo Māori within the iwi. It offers classes for beginners to advanced learners, and everyone in between.
This Kura Reo motivates the use, quality, and cultural significance of te reo in homes, communities, marae, and educational settings. Aligning with the broader Rautaki Iho Ake 2035 strategy, aiming to strengthen language use in homes and communities.
The main objective of Te Kura Reo o Ngāti Whakaue is to develop and deepen the education, linguistics, whakapapa, and identity, of the hapū, iwi, and marae descendants. This is strengthening the quality and use of the language of Ngāti Whakaue, which will be seen and heard both within and outside of initiatives.
It focused on supporting whānau aspirations, language immersion, resource development, language revitalisation strategies, and fostering intergenerational connections and cultural identity. It used various online learning platforms to ensure widespread participation.
