Learn some basics

Pronunciation

Learn the Māori alphabet and its sounds. This can help you when saying everyday words and place names.

A guide to pronunciation — ReoMāori.co.nz

Pūrārangi Māori | The Māori alphabet — Te Wānanga o Aotearoa

Common vocab

Some Māori words are used frequently in New Zealand. Learn some basic words, their meanings and hear how they are pronounced.

100 Māori words every New Zealander should know — New Zealand History

Dictionary

Use the Te Aka online dictionary to understand Māori words you find. You can translate Māori to English or English to Māori.

Te Aka Māori dictionary — maoridictionary.co.nz

Introduce yourself in Māori

Mihi is a type of greeting and introduction. You can learn your mihi and introduce yourself and where you are from.

Learn your mihi — ReoMāori.co.nz

Enrol in te reo Māori courses

Many places across New Zealand offer courses, some are free and some have fees. Courses are available for beginner, intermediate and advanced learners.

The courses can be in-person, online or blended — a mix of in-person sessions and online learning. Find a course that suits you.

Ngā wāhi e ako ai koe | Where to learn — ReoMāori.co.nz

Māori culture

Proverbs

Whakataukī are Māori proverbs and are an important part of Māori culture.

Whakataukī | Māori proverbs — Woodward Māori

Waiata and haka

Waiata and haka are important to Māori culture, learn some words and their meanings.

Waiata and haka lyrics — Tāmata Toiere

Karakia

Karakia is a blessing or prayer often said at the beginning of a gathering or sharing of food.

He Karakia — Te Puni Kōkiri

Translation services

Not all Māori speakers are translators — this is a specialist skill that takes training and practice.

You can find certified translators on the National Translators Register. The timeframes and costs for translation will depend on the content and size of the translation. You’ll need to find out the timeframe and cost from the translator directly.

Search the te reo Māori translators register — Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori

Become a certified translator

Toi Reo Māori is a free training course for highly-proficient speakers to become qualified translators and interpreters.

Become a certified translator — Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori