TVNZ Shines at Maori Language Week Awards

Television New Zealand shines at first ever Maori Language Week Awards.

Te Reo Tataki (Television New Zealand) took the top prize, the Supreme Award, at the Inaugural Maori Language Week Awards held in Wellington tonight.

Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Maori (Maori Language Commission) Chief Executive Haami Piripi in presenting the Supreme Award paid tribute to the courage to the 1970's Maori language activists like Hana Jackson, without whom the Maori language may not be as strong as it is today.

"It is appropriate that we hold these Maori language awards today. Since 1972, 14 September has been recognised by Maori language advocates as Maori Language Day. Tonight we honour the activism that brought about the regeneration of te reo Maori and celebrate the efforts of many individuals and organisations throughout the country and overseas in promoting te reo Maori," Haami says.

Winners of the nine awards were:

Te Tohu Tari Kawanatanga (Central Government Award) Te Tari Mahi - Department of Labour Sponsored by Te Puni Kokiri

Te Tohu Mahi Pakihi (Business Award) Te Whare Wanaka o Waitaha - Canterbury University Sponsored by Ngai Tahu Seafood

Te Tohu Hapori - (Community Award) Te Whakaruruhau ki Otautahi - Christchurch Community House Sponsored by Ma Te Reo

Te Tohu Kura - (School Award) Albany School Sponsored by Cinco Cine Film Productions

Te Tohu Ta - (Print Award) Gisborne Herald Sponsored by Pronto Print

Te Tohu Reo Irirangi - (Radio Award) Niu FM Sponsored by Te Mängai Päho

Te Tohu Pouaka Whakaata - (Television Award) Te Reo Tataki - Television New Zealand Sponsored by Te Mängai Päho

Te Tohu Kaunihera a-Rohe/Whare Pukapuka - (Library Award) Nga Kete Wananga-o-Otautahi - Christchurch City Libraries Sponsored by National Library

Te Tohu Rangatira - (Supreme Award) Te Reo Tataki - Television New Zealand Sponsored by Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Mäori

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