The refreshed Maihi Karauna, the Crown’s Māori Language Strategy, sets the next direction for strengthening and normalising te reo Māori across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Last updated: Rāhina, 14 Mahuru, 2026 | Monday, 14 September 2026
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Refreshed Maihi Karauna released
Building on the foundations that were established since the original Maihi Karauna was released in 2019, the refreshed strategy emphasises increasing the everyday use of te reo Māori - so it is visible, valued and voiced.
Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori (the Māori Language Commission) and Te Puni Kōkiri have led the development of the refreshed strategy, drawing on evidence, evaluation findings, and engagement across the public sector.
The refreshed Maihi Karauna continues to stand alongside the Maihi Māori. The Crown’s strategy focuses on its responsibilities for Māori language revitalisation, while the Maihi Māori sets the direction for Māori and iwi.
Download the refreshed Maihi Karauna strategy
Building on progress
The original Maihi Karauna has played an important role in lifting the visibility, use, and support for te reo Māori across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Throughout the public sector, agencies have increasingly incorporated te reo Māori into their daily work, contributing to stronger awareness and more opportunities for people to engage with the language.
Building on this momentum, the refreshed strategy purposely shifts its focus from ‘awareness and support’ to ‘increasing everyday use’.
A focus on practical action
With the refreshed strategy now confirmed, the next phase is turning strategy into practical, coordinated action across government.
A two-year action plan will set out priorities and areas of focus, supporting agencies to strengthen their language plans and deliver meaningful outcomes.
There will also be a stronger focus on improving how progress is measured and reported over time.
Looking ahead
The refreshed Maihi Karauna reflects a long-term commitment to revitalising te reo Māori as a living language.
It acknowledges the progress made to date, while setting a clear direction for the next phase - ensuring te reo Māori continues to grow in everyday use across Aotearoa New Zealand, now and for future generations.
Read the Minister for Māori Development’s media release
More information
- Frequently asked questions
- Maihi Karauna Strategy Recommendations report [PDF 595KB}
- Maihi Karauna Review of Evidence report [PDF 819KB]
- Maihi Karauna Refresh Guidance document [PDF 1MB]
- Maihi Karauna Strategy - Māori version [PDF 198KB]
- Maihi Karauna Strategy - English version [PDF 202KB]