He Toa Reo Māori, 50 years on - national commemoration

A national commemorative event will be held at Parliament to mark the 50th anniversary of the Māori language petition (Te Petihana) from 11:30am – 1pm on 14 September 2022.

The event recognises the people behind Te Petihana in 1972 and how their bravery and work inspired today’s Māori language movement.

The Māori language petition had 30,000 signatories by Māori and non-Māori and was led by rangatahi from Te Reo Māori Society and Ngā Tamatoa. While the 1972 petition called for te reo Māori to be taught in all schools.

Everyone is welcome to join the national commemorations being held during Māori Language Week. There will be formal speeches, live music, free kai and the Māori language moment at midday.