Now locals won’t have to venture far to learn te reo Māori and develop an understanding of a Māori worldview thanks to free lessons by Te Wananga o Aotearoa at the local Wesley Community Centre. This initiative is supported by Puketāpapa Local Board.
The confluence of different cultures in Puketāpapa presents a perfect place and opportunity for the teaching and learning of new languages and improve cultural understanding, including te reo Māori.
“Te Reo Māori is a real treasure and so many in our community want to learn, so it’s great to be able to offer local classes, to share the knowledge and understanding in our neighbourhoords,” says Julie Fairey, Acting Chair of Puketāpapa Local Board.
The area has one of the most culturally diverse residential communities in Auckland. By 2038, the Puketāpapa Local Board population is expected to be seven per cent Māori, 21 per cent European, 19 per cent Pasifika, and 58 per cent Asian according to Statistics New Zealand.
“A course like this one provides people with an opportunity to engage in a Māori worldview and increase cultural understanding,” says Deborah Misiuepa, Relationships Manager, Te Wananga o Aotearoa.
“We also enjoy delivering an English as a second language programme.”
She says that the English language programme is popular with people new to New Zealand for whom English may not be a first language.
What: Free Introduction to Te Reo Māori Language or English Language courses by Te Wananga o Aotearoa
Where: Wesley Community Centre
Anyone who is 16+ is eligible. Remember to bring proof of ID - your passport or birth certificate.
