The Maori Language Commission says a new book on the Taranaki version of te reo leads the way for similar revitalisation of Maori dialects.
He Puuranga Taakupu a Taranaki lists thousands of words including hundreds unique to Taranaki, with definitions and examples of usage.
An internet version will allow users to comment and add more words, pictures, audio and video.
Publisher Te Reo o Taranaki Trust says it wants to foster speaking communities which use and extend vernacular Taranaki reo in everyday settings.
The Maori Language Commission says after creating its own nationally-focused dictionary, sustaining dialects is a new priority.
Its chief executive Huhana Rokx says funding is now focused on community projects, allowing local variations to govern language development.