Photo: Phil Botha (Unsplash License)
About 50,000 people speak Maori fluently in New Zealand, and many more are learning and using it. · 1 writing systems
Language of New Zealand
In New Zealand, you'll find two main languages: English and Māori. Māori is special because it's the language of the Māori people who have lived in New Zealand for thousands of years. It's a big part of the country's culture and traditions. By learning these languages, you can discover the stories and songs that are important to the people of New Zealand.
About the Script
When reading Māori, notice that some letters make different sounds than in English. The combinations 'wh' and 'ng' are especially important in Māori words.
Script Explorer
Māori Script
Māori uses the Latin alphabet with unique sounds for certain letter combinations.
Phrase Cards
Fun Fact
The name 'Kiwi', a nickname for New Zealanders, comes from a native flightless bird that lives only in New Zealand.
Fun Fact
In New Zealand schools, children often learn the Māori language to help preserve it.
Cultural Note
The Māori language is special in New Zealand and is used in schools and on signs to help everyone remember and use it.
Vocabulary
Did you know? Just like how people in America have American English, people in New Zealand have their own Kiwi English with unique words and sounds!