The future of the Maori language in Kawerau (and in New Zealand) worried many of the people interviewed. Most people felt that knowing the language was an important part of being Maori. Those who could speak both Maori and English said this was a real help to them in their lives, while others were sorry that they didn't have the chance to learn Maori earlier. (Some of these people were attending language and culture classes at night school, in local homes or on the marae.) Many people were for the teaching of Maori in the school, especially at the primary level, although some said that the particular form of Maori (or dialect) taught should be the local one and not that of another tribal area. 

Source: Read the full NZCER report here: