First of its Kind Pacific Languages Survey Launched Today

The Ministry for Pacific Peoples is calling on Pasifika to complete a survey about Pacific Languages in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Minister for Pacific Peoples Aupito William Sio says, “a ground-breaking survey launched today will give researchers valuable insights into the state of Pacific languages in Aotearoa.” He adds it is also the first time data about the use of Pacific languages in New Zealand has been gathered in this way.

The Leo Moana o Aotearoa Pacific Languages Survey is part of a wider project that will support the revitalisation and sustainability of Te Gagana Tokelau, Vagahau Niue, Te Reo Māori Kuki ‘Āirani, Gagana Samoa, Lea Faka-Tonga, Te Gana Tuvalu, Vosa Vakaviti, Fäeag Rotųam and Te taetae ni Kiribati.

Minister Sio says the online survey will let them know about people’s attitudes to Pacific languages in New Zealand, including the importance and value that people place on their own languages.

“We need a clear picture of the attitudes we, as Pacific peoples, have to our languages, to determine what’s most needed to carry out the necessary strengthening of the posts of our houses.,” says Minister Sio.

The Leo Moana o Aotearoa Pacific Languages Survey is open through December 2021.

To take part, visit: https://www.mpp.govt.nz/programmes/pacific-languages-survey/