It is Maori Language Week on 26 July–1 August, the theme is 'Te Mahi Kai – The Language of Food'. Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Maori (Maori Language Commission), along with the Human Rights Commission and Te Puni Kokiri, plays a key role in the annual Maori Language Week. (source: NZ History Online). We support the cause.

Multicultural Rotorua in association with Whakarewarewa-The Living Thermal Village would like to invite migrants and newcomers to Rotorua for a three-hour combination of cultural experience and language learning at Whakarewarewa- The Living Thermal Village, Tryon Street  on Saturday 31 July 10am-1pm. 

U&I LEARN MAORI…you are invited to a hangi.

What is hangi? It is a traditional Maori method of cooking food with steam or heat from heated stones. In Whakarewarewa, the meal is cooked in natural steam vents. Whakarewarewa is home to the Tuhourangi  Ngati Wahiao people. It is a land of wonders- a landscape of active geothermal activity continually changing. Bubbling mud pools, boiling mineral springs, silica terraces and views of erupting geysers attract world-wide visitors. For over 300 years, they have utilized the geothermal resources for daily cooking, bathing and living. The world-famous Whakarewarewa visitor guides will take you through the experience as they welcome you and share their history, the teachings of their ancestors and the perpetuation of their art, crafts and culture. Having a hangi meal completes a Maori cultural experience.

We advise you to come early, around quarter to 10am for briefing. Guided village tour starts at 10am, cultural show at 11:15am  and hangi meal at 12noon. Cost $12. Confirm attendance by emailing Alexis at multiculturalrotorua@gmail.com or Susana at rotorua@newcomers.co.nz  with your name and contact details.  Supported by Rotorua Arts Village- Te Whare Toi and the Newcomers Network.

This is a time for all New Zealanders to celebrate te reo Maori (the Maori language) and to use more Maori phrases in everyday life. Te reo Maori is undergoing a resurgence and more people speak the language. There are Maori language schools, Maori radio stations, and in 2004 a Maori television channel began broadcasting. visit nzhistory.net.nz/culture/maori-language-week/100-maori-words to learn 100 common Maori words we all should know.