First-Ever Moriori Language Week To Launch Across New Zealand

Hokotehi Moriori Trust is proud to announce the launch of the first-ever Moriori Language Week, kicking off Monday 17 November 2025. This milestone celebration will be filled with events and festivities across the motchu, honouring and revitalising ta rē Moriori, the indigenous language of Rēkohu (the Chatham Islands).

Throughout the week, people will have the chance to experience the richness of Moriori culture through ta rē (language) lessons, tikane Moriori (cultural practices), rongo (song), and storytelling. From local events on Rēkohu to digital campaigns lighting up social media, the tchipangă (cause) will showcase Moriori resilience and identity, and invite all New Zealanders to take part.

“Moriori have had to relearn our language following generations of hardship, colonisation, and misrepresentation. By establishing Moriori Language Week, we’re ensuring ta rē Moriori is revived, spoken, and celebrated — whether or not it has official recognition,” said Levi Lanauze, Interim CEO of Hokotehi Moriori Trust.

Moriori Language Week joins the vibrant family of Māori and Pacific language weeks across the country, standing in solidarity with the wider movement to protect and celebrate indigenous languages.

How to Get Involved

A full line-up of events and resources will be announced soon. In the meantime, everyone is encouraged to follow Hokotehi Moriori Trust’s social media channels to stay up to date and discover fun ways to participate.

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