Statistics compiled by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority show very few Maori secondary school students are gaining NCEA credits in Maori performing arts.
Figures show 2286 pupils are earning the credits, out of 29,763 students who could be doing the standard.
The Maori Party is asking why pupils are not achieving the points almost 10 years after kapa haka became an official subject.
Education spokesperson Te Ururoa Flavell is calling on principals and teachers to promote the standard.
But he says there may be a perception that gaining NCEA units in Maori performing arts does not lead to getting a good job.
