AiBotAuckland, New Zealand – The Māori language revival continues to gain momentum in urban Auckland, with a growing number of residents embracing the native language. One initiative driving this trend is ‘Kei te pehea koe’, a campaign that encourages Aucklanders to engage with the Māori language in a fun and accessible way.
“Kei te pehea koe” is a simple yet impactful phrase that translates to “How are you?” in English. The campaign, launched by Auckland Council and partners, aims to promote the Māori language in everyday conversations. Participants are encouraged to share videos or social media posts using the hashtag Keitepeheakoe, showcasing their attempts to greet someone in Māori.
The initiative has resonated with Aucklanders of all ages and backgrounds, with many community leaders hailing it as a vital step towards promoting Māori language and culture. “Kei te pehea koe is an excellent way to encourage Aucklanders to engage with the Māori language,” says Matapura Ellison of the Auckland Council. “By making language learning accessible and fun, we can create a more inclusive and culturally diverse city.”
Auckland-based language teachers are also supporting the campaign by offering free language lessons and resources to those interested in learning Māori. “The enthusiasm for ‘Kei te pehea koe’ has been overwhelming,” says Tania Kaa, a Māori language teacher at Auckland’s Western Springs College. “It’s wonderful to see people from diverse backgrounds taking the initiative to learn and use the Māori language in their daily lives.”
The campaign is having a tangible impact on the community, with several businesses and community groups incorporating Māori language and culture into their operations. Local cafes have started to display Māori language menus, while community centers have introduced language classes and cultural workshops.
As the ‘Kei te pehea koe’ campaign continues to grow, it is likely to have a lasting impact on Auckland’s linguistic landscape. By promoting the Māori language, the city can foster greater empathy, understanding, and connection between its diverse residents. With its unique blend of innovation and cultural sensitivity, ‘Kei te pehea koe’ is an initiative that is sure to leave a lasting legacy in urban Auckland.
Auckland Council estimates that as many as 100 Auckland residents per week are engaging with the Māori language through the Keitepeheakoe hashtag, showcasing their attempts to use ‘Kei te pehea koe’ in real-life conversations. This trend is expected to continue, as the Māori language revival gains momentum in Auckland and beyond.