23 Jan 2014

Maori research centre launched

8:46 pm on 23 January 2014

A new centre dedicated to finding out how to protect te reo Maori - and direct resources where they're needed most - has been set up by the Maori Language Commission.

It's announced the establishment of Te Taura Whiri i Te Reo Maori centre for research and development called He Puna Whakarauora.

Chair of the government agency Erima Henare says it builds on the direction for te reo that had been set by Maori Affairs Minister Pita Sharples during the 2013 Budget.

The commission's chief executive, Glenis Philip-Barbara, will head the new unit, while former MP Pita Paraone takes over as acting chief executive.

He Puna Whakarauora aims to - among things - measure the use of te reo in homes, as well as the value of the language in regards to New Zealand's economy.