This year, Te Wiki o te Reo Māori will take place from 14 to 21 September. The 14th of September acknowledges the date that Te Petihana Reo Māori (the Māori Language Petition) was presented at parliament. This established the first Māori Language Day which eventually became Te Wiki o te Reo Māori. Sport NZ Ihi Aotearoa is committed to contributing to the revitalisation of te reo Māori and we know many organisations and community groups across Aotearoa are doing and hosting some amazing innitiatives, such as events, quiz nights, waiata sessions and much more.

The theme this year is "Ake, Ake, Ake – A Forever Language" or in te reo "Ake Ake Ake – Mō Ake Tonu te Reo".

'Ake, ake, ake' means everlasting. It captures the endurance of te reo Māori and all those who are committed to it.

The native akeake tree is also known for its durability. It produces some of the strongest of all native woods and grows in some of the harshest climates. Its name reminds us of its endurance. Just like te reo Māori.

We can think of te reo Māori as a seedling with potential. Raised with others, given care and effort, it can grow to give shelter for future generations.

Check out all the resources available to you for this year's Te Wiki o te Reo Māori online at Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori.

Karawhiua! Inspire others by sharing what's happening in your rohe (region).

Things you can do to participate in Te Wiki o te Reo Māori this year:

• Sign up to Reo Māori
• Follow and share the community socials - facebook, instagram,
• Follow and tag the official corporate socials - facebook, linkedin
• Update your email signature or get parade ready with the new resources
• Attend one of the hikoi (march), if you're in Te Whanganui a a Tara Wellington or Ōtautahi Christchurch.