14 Apr 2010

More funding sought for Maori language regeneration programmes

10:01 am on 14 April 2010

The Maori Language Commission is making a case for continued funding of flax roots Maori language regeneration programmes.

Te Taura Whiri acting chief executive Wayne Ngata says Ma Te Reo, which distributes $1.8 million each year to iwi, hapu, whanau and individuals to promote the language, is due to be wound up this year, after 10 years.

Waatea News reports applications have just opened for the final funding round.

Mr Ngata says huge strides have been made since the programme was launched in 2001, but there is scope for more to be done.

He said Te Taura Whiri is encouraging iwi, hapu and other providers to collaborate on applications, to encourage a spread of Ma Te Reo funds across regions.