This week, AJHS came alive with the sights, sounds, and spirit of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori (Māori Language Week)! For 50 years, New Zealand has honoured this special week, and 2025 is no different. This year’s theme, “Ake Ake Ake – A Forever Language,” reminds us that te reo Māori is not just for today, but for generations to come.

At AJHS, the school embraced the language and culture in creative and exciting ways. Each day brought new opportunities to kōrero Māori, learn about Aotearoa’s past, and celebrate the richness of te ao Māori.

Students explored kupu o te rā (word of the day), played traditional games like whanowhano and rangitira, and enjoyed fun activities in whānau time such as Arewhana. The library celebrated at lunchtimes with kupu treasure hunts, colouring-in competitions, and crafting sessions like weaving harakeke flowers and fish or making bookmarks decorated with whakataukī. Thank you to Librarian Jo Ramsey. Out on the field, Whaea T led energetic games of Kī o Rahi, bringing the spirit of teamwork and tradition to life.

Meanwhile, our Year 7 & 8 learners delved into Aotearoa New Zealand histories, exploring how the past shapes the present. Their hard mahi was proudly shared in presentations displayed in the whānau atriums, showing how deeply they engaged with this kaupapa.

A huge mihi to Matua Anthony Helmhout, our kapa haka rōpū, our rangatahi, and Danni Stone for producing this powerful video shared on AJHS social media, our website and in this article. This resource is for the whole community to celebrate and learn te reo together! 

As Te Wiki o te Reo Māori reminds us, the simplest way to show manaaki is by greeting each other in te reo Māori. Even small steps – a “kia ora” in the morning, or a “ka kite” at the end of the day – help the language thrive.

Let’s continue the journey together, beyond just this week.

Kia kaha te kōrero Māori. Be brave, be proud, and speak Māori!