A person’s name is something to be treasured. It’s been given to them by the people who loved them the most, their parents. It often has a special meaning and history, which are linked with the person’s identity. Calling someone by their name is a sign of respect and appreciation. It is the cornerstone of a trustful relationship.
At school, at work, at the clinic and elsewhere, Māori hear their names mispronounced, to the point where they even hesitate to give their own children Māori names in the hope that an English name will help them fit better in the New Zealand society. This is very sad, because people’s names are at the core of whakapapa, which is so central to Māori identity.
It is our hope that this website will make you enthusiastic about learning to pronounce Māori names better and equip you with all the resources you need to learn easily and quickly.
