Cook Islands Language Week 2023

Celebrate: Sunday 30 July – Saturday 5 August

This year’s theme for ‘Epetoma o te reo Māori Kūki ‘Āirani – Cook Islands Language Week will be announced soon.

Last year's them was ‘Ātuitui’ia au ki te Oneone o tōku ‘Ui Tupuna which means, connect me to the soil of my ancestors.

‘Ātuitui’ia au ki te Oneone o tōku ‘Ui Tupuna reflected on the journey of Cook Islands peoples in New Zealand, as well as the longing of young Cook Islanders to connect with their language, culture, and identity. Acknowledging that while community elders are fundamental to the teaching and sharing of Cook Islands language, the leadership of young people as the next wave of cultural and language experts is also critical in keeping the connection to their homelands alive.

The theme reflected the overarching 2022 Pacific Language Week theme of Sustainability, by linking the importance of language sharing and cultural heritage being handed down over generations.

In launching last year's Cook Islands Language Week, Minister for Pacific Peoples Aupito William Sio said he wanted the community to focus on the importance of keeping the language alive across the generations.

“It provides an opportunity to capture elders' stories for perpetuity so future generations can benefit and celebrate this indigenous knowledge,” Aupito William Sio said.

Watch this page for a calendar of activities and events to be held through Aotearoa to embrace and celebrate Cook Islands Language Week.  

Stay connected online by visiting the official NZ Cook Islands Language Week Facebook page.