Calls for Māori signage at all airports and banks

Airports and Banks should be mandated to use Maori signage - reo Maori group

Umere, a Maori language group, is calling for the government to mandate Maori-English signage in major institutions such as airports and banks.

The group wants Maori and English signposting to be used in these locations to give effect to Maori as an official language.

‘We think the Minister will support us,’ says Umere chair Maraea Hunia. ‘We’re noticing that our aiports and banks and other organisations are putting other languages ahead of Maori, and that a law change will address this.’

The group is seeking a straight-forward policy of mandating te reo Maori and English signs at major institutions:

- Banks

- Airports

- National retail chains

- Schools

- Other large government institutions

- Maori and English, with other languages included in smaller font. ‘It’s accepted in bilingual nations that this kind of signage is used, like in Wales and Canada,’ continues Hunia. ‘We’d like this kaupapa to be at the top of the agenda at the Matawai hui tomorrow in Levin, where Maori language communities are being asked about the Maori language bill.’

Background: Government consultation on Maori language bill: Kawiu Marae, Levin 10.30 am Thurs 3 Mar 2016

Examples of signs that Umere believes should be in a bilingual Maori – English format. 1. ANZ 2. Auckland Airport 3. BNZ

ENDS

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