Maori language classes for beginners | Papa Reo

Applications are closed due to high demand.

If you'd like to register your interest for upcoming Papa Reo enrolments, join our Papa Reo mailing list. We will notify you when Papa Reo is open for enrolment.

Alternatively, check out our other home-based learning programmes. You may also be interested in our introductory Tikanga programme.

Programme overview:

Have you always wanted to learn the Māori language but didn't know where to start? Take the first step in learning te reo Māori with Papa Reo.

This beginner's programme will teach you the basics in pronunciation and basic sentence structures. You'll be able to use formal and informal greetings, introduce yourself and recite your whakapapa (genealogy).

Learn from home with amazing resources and regular visits from a kaitiaki (support person).

When you pass this programme, you'll get this qualification:

New Zealand Certificate in Te Reo (Reo Rua) Level 1

Our study at home programmes have different start dates in each region, depending on current demand. Programmes fill quickly and your start date might be several months after you complete your enrolment. Once we receive your enrolment, we’ll send you a letter confirming your start date. Please make sure you have provided everything for a complete enrolment.

You'll learn about:

pronunciation of Māori words
greetings and farewells
different parts of the body
basic instructions around the home
days of the week, dates, the time and seasons.

Where will this take me?

I want to keep studying

You'll be ready to enrol on our Level 2 Te Ara Reo Māori programme or advance to one of our Level 3 tikanga programmes that teach you about Māori customs and protocols.

I want to use my qualification

You'll have an understanding and awareness of te reo Māori that can be used to support and enhance your current employment and knowledge.

How you’ll study:

This is a part-time programme that consists of 60 credits delivered over 52 weeks. Throughout the programme you will be required to complete set activities each week from home. These activities will require at least:

12 hours of learning per week

Papa Reo has moved online.

Most of the learning activities will need to be completed online through our student learning platform, Akorau. This means you’ll need access to the internet and a computer/laptop/tablet to complete the course. While you could use a smartphone, for a better learning experience we recommend using a device with a larger screen like a laptop or tablet.

You’ll still receive visits from your kaitiaki (support person). They’ll be in touch with you to arrange suitable visiting times.

In your first and third months of studying, you’ll receive a resource kete (pack) via courier. These resources will be used alongside Akorau to complete various activities.

Entry criteria

To enrol in this programme, a potential student must:

be at least 16 years of age
be a New Zealand citizen (or citizen of Australia, Tokelau, Niue, Cook Islands) or permanent resident
reside in New Zealand.

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Papa Reo

NZ Certificate in Te Reo