Finalists in the 13 respective categories at the annual Ngā Tohu Reo Māori have been announced. Thirty-eight finalists have been chosen from more than 88 entries.
This is the highest number of entries received since the award's inception in 2004. This year, the Te Taurawhiri i Te Reo Māori event will take place in New Plymouth on 11 November.
Te Taura Whiri Chief Executive Ngahiwi Apanui says the entries have set a new benchmark for innovation and excellence in te reo Māori.
“Each year the competition to be named a champion of te reo Māori gets tougher,” he says.
This year’s finalists, many of whom have been past winners, and are finalists in more than one category, have built on previous experience to take te reo to new heights.
The awards are an important event in the Māori language calendar and as well as recognising initiatives and activities which took place during the year, are also an opportunity to acknowledge long-term commitment by individuals and groups to Māori language revitalisation,” Apanui adds.
Categories this year include awards for individuals and groups, including arts and entertainment, educational institutions, businesses, radio and television broadcasters, and individuals.
The finalists are as follows;