Understanding and being able to use basic Māori language (te reo) helps students not only with conducting research but also when communicating with Māori community members. Using Māori words instead of English interpretations of them shows respect for Māori frameworks. For example, while a “hapu” has the English translation of a “small tribe,” this is not necessarily a direct translation. A hapu is a part of how Māori communities are structured, and therefore attached to Māori worldviews. By using te reo, students are using wording that acknowledges that Māori structures are unique to Māori cultures. By using accurate Māori words in writing and in conversation, students show a deeper understanding and respect for Māori culture.
GREETINGS
Māori greetings are generally welcomed in Aotearoa and show an open-mindedness to Māori concepts. We’ve identified two greetings that students should consider using:
“Kia Ora,” a common greeting throughout New Zealand, that translates to “hello! cheers! good luck! best wishes!”
A mihi and pepeha are Māori greetings that are structured personal introductions. The mihi connects the speaker to their ancestry and where they are from. The pepeha is a bit longer and connects the speaker to their ancestry as well as landmarks from their homes.
“Many New Zealanders don’t know their mihi and can’t do it, but when you are with the Māori people and you do that they embrace you, and even though that you don’t pronounce it 100%, perhaps only 25%, they are still pleased that you’ve done that. And you are able to open a door many kiwis can’t.”
– Ian Gunn, Environmental Engineering Consultant and IQP New Zealand Sponsor
“[The mihi] seems a little bit about the effort that people make… and so it sees that the framework that you’re using in the mihi is acknowledging the Māori framework.”
– Rawiri Smith, Environment Manager (Kaiwhakahaere Taiao) for Kahungunu Ki Wairarapa; New Zealand IQP Sponsor