Te Reo Māori

Course Overview

Term 1
Term 1: Whanaungatanga (Relationships)
In the first two weeks, you’ll learn basic greetings, introductions, and farewells in te reo Māori. We’ll play the fun “Ko wai au?” (Who am I?) name game and practice greetings and introductions through role-playing.
Next, we’ll focus on vocabulary for family members and friends. You’ll create and present a family tree in te reo Māori and share stories about your family.
You’ll learn the names of classroom objects and school-related vocabulary. We’ll have a scavenger hunt to find and label classroom objects and practice using classroom commands in te reo Māori.
We will wrap up the term with a visit to a local marae where you get to participate in a day of traditional Māori games, songs (waiata), and storytelling (pūrākau) specific to the local area.

Term 2
Term 2: Ngā Wāhanga o te Tau (Seasons and Weather)
Here’s a sneak peek at what we’ll be learning and doing this term. We’ll kick off by learning the names of the seasons in te reo Māori. You’ll get creative with some seasonal artwork and dive into stories that bring each season to life.
Next, we’ll become weather experts! You’ll learn how to talk about different weather conditions and even create your own weather reports. Plus, you’ll keep a weather diary to track the daily weather in te reo Māori or even try creating your own māramataka (environmental calendar).
We’ll explore the names of various clothing items - including what you wear everyday and your school uniform. Get ready for a fun fashion show where you’ll describe and model different outfits. Have some fun with dress up games matching clothes to different weather conditions. Whether you’re into fashion or just booking to have a good time, these activities are sure to be a blast for everyone!
This term, we’ll also celebrate Matariki, the Māori New Year. We’ll learn about the importance of Matariki, share stories, and take part in exciting activities like star gazing and making traditional crafts. It’s a wonderful time to come together and celebrate as a school with our friends and whānau.

Term 3
Term 3: Ngā Mahi a Rēhia (Leisure & Cultural Activities)
This term is all about having fun while learning. Whether you’re into sports, hobbies, or cultural activities, there’s something for everyone. Let’s make Term 3 unforgettable!
We’ll kick off the term by diving into the world of sports and games. You’ll learn the vocabulary for different sports and games, and then get to put it into practice. There will be plenty of options.
Next, we’ll explore hobbies and interests. You’ll get to share your personal hobbies and interests and it’s a great chance to learn about your classmate’s interests and pick up some new vocabulary along the way.
We’ll wrap up the term with an exciting focus on cultural exploration of the Māori culture through various hands-on activities. We’ll explore local traditions based around Ngā Ana Whakairo (Māori Rock Art) and Mahinga Kai (traditional food gathering), as well as an introduction to other artforms such as weaving and carving, and learn about their significance. You’ll also get to participate in a fun and interactive Māori language scavenger hunt, where you’ll use your te reo Māori skills to solve clues and complete challenges. It’s a fantastic way to end the term with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Māori culture!

Term 4
Term 4: Ngā Kai (Food)
This term is packed with delicious and exciting activities to make the most of our final term together! Here’s what you can look forward to in Term 4 of our te reo Māori programme:
We’ll start by learning the vocabulary for different foods and meals and create shopping lists in te reo for a fun supermarket role-play activity.
We’ll wrap up the term by planning a kaihaukai hākari (food sharing feast). This is a fun and meaningful way to celebrate Māori and other cultures. You’ll get to cook and exchange foods from different tribal regions or cultures, learning about their significance and enjoying a feast together with your classmates. What a great way to end the year to connect, share, and appreciate diverse kai and traditions!