Maori Language Awards 2011
Posted by This years’ Maori Language Awards ceremony was held on Friday night at the Energy and Events Centre in Rotorua.
27 finalists were shortlisted to compete for awards in 12 categories, including education, government and broadcasting. Each finalist had to incorporate the theme of manaakitanga (hospitality) into their respective entries.
Reo advocate Dr. Te Huirangi Waikerepuru was awarded the Supreme Award, Taku Toa Takimano; the award to recognise an individual’s contribution to the language. Dr. Waikerepuru is renowned for his campaign to ensure the survival of te reo Maori.
Other winners included the Department of Corrections, for helping contribute to the regeneration of the language in the prison system.