Kia ora koutou katoa – welcome to Te Waka Reo, the newsletter of the National Language Policy Network.

Te Waka Reo, the National Language Policy Network is facilitated by the Human Rights Commission as part of the New Zealand Diversity Action Programme. It connects people and organisations with an interest or practical involvement in language issues, keeps them informed of initiatives and activities concerning languages, and promotes further development of national language policy. The Commission’s vision for language policy is set out in the National Statement on Language Policy .

The Commission publishes a monthly newsletter on language diversity issues, Te Waka Reo, and organises an annual language policy forum at the New Zealand Diversity Forum .  It also works in partnership with other organisations to promote International Mother Languages Day (21 February), New Zealand Sign Language Week (May), Samoan Language Week (May), Maori Language Week (July) and International Languages Week (August).

Through the New Zealand Diversity Action Programme, organizations are encouraged to undertake projects and programmes promoting language diversity.  Participants in the programme with a strong focus on language include the Alliance Francaise, English Language Partners, Interpreting New Zealand, the Office of Ethnic Affairs (Language Line), CAB Language Link, the Maori Language Commission and the Association of Samoan Teachers (FAGASA).