Rāhoroi, 15 Mahuru, 2007

Te Puni Kōkiri has published the latest edition of its stakeholder magazine Kōkiri entirely in te reo as part of its celebration of Māori language.

Communications Manager Jaewynn McKay says Kōkiri magazine reaches around 35,000 individuals and organisations with an interest in Māori development, so the latest edition was a wonderful way to celebrate the Māori language with a key audience.

“We are delighted that this edition is fully in Māori,” says Ms McKay. “Te Puni Kōkiri is one of the lead agencies designated by the Government to deliver the Māori Language Strategy, which is a long-term Māori language revitalisation plan.

“The most recent Health of the Māori Language survey carried out by Te Puni Kōkiri shows real gains in the numbers of people able to communicate in Māori. So there really is something to celebrate and that’s what this edition is all about.” 

The latest edition, the fourth under its new-look A4 magazine style design, features a cover shot of Victoria Cross recipient Corporal Willie Apiata. Inside there is an extensive feature on his investiture, his deeds, and the official welcome he received back on his home marae.

“Mr Apiata is a fabulous role model for young Māori,” says Ms McKay. “This isn’t just about his deeds in the theatre of war, but the way he has conducted himself throughout the experience of gaining the Victoria Cross, which he has handled with dignity and humility.”

Taking the centre-spread is a dramatic mini-poster showcasing the New Zealand Māori rugby team: “Sport can be a powerful catalyst for change,” says Ms McKay. “The New Zealand Māori Rugby Team has an amazing record of success and are wonderful ambassadors for the Māori culture. We think they literally make a great pin-up for healthy, active lifestyles.” 

The featured Te Puni Kōkiri region in this edition of Kōkiri magazine is Takitimu, which runs from the Hawkes Bay down through the Wairarapa. It profiles key staff, projects and Māori development events in that region.

“Te Puni Kōkiri is doing a huge amount of work with individuals, groups and organisations that are helping Māori to realise their potential,” says Ms McKay. “We do this by utilising our connections and contacts made in the community through a network of local offices in 10 regions across New Zealand.”