Te Wiki o te Reo Māori 2020

For tamariki and beginners

Broadcaster and te reo champion Stacey Morrison loved reading Bob Darroch’s classic lift-the-flap picture book Time For Bed, Little Kiwi to her own tamariki so much that she has translated it into te reo! This is a great book for parents and educators reading to pre-schoolers. 

For older pre-schoolers and primary school learners we recommend these two new editions of Peter Gossage’s classics, translated by Merimeri Penfold: available for the first time as bilingual editions, with each spread showing both the English and te reo. Good for expanding vocabulary, and with amazing illustrations to enjoy and to help with context.
(Te Hopu a Māui i a Te Rā / Te-Ika-a-Māui) 

For teens/competent learners upwards 

Te Kaieke Tohorā is the te reo edition of Witi Ihimaera’s classic bestseller (which inspired the award-winning film), The Whale Rider. Translated by Tīmoti Kāretu, it tells the story of a girl caught between old traditions and new ways. This is a good “stretch” choice for intermediate learners who are keen to move on from easier books.

For adult learners of all levels 

Scotty and Stacey’s Māori Made Fun is a brand new pukapuka we have published to coincide with Te Wiki! It contains over 200 puzzles and games to boost your reo, from wordfinds and crosswords to riddles. Great to take on the bus, or to have lying around on the kitchen table or in your bag while you’re waiting for an appointment – a few minutes here and there will really help your vocabulary stick. Click here to see an example of a crossword!

Another good new 'book' for on-the-go: we are delighted to announce that Scotty Morrison’s bestselling Māori Made Easy is about to be available as an audiobook – the perfect listen for while you’re in the car or doing the dishes! 

Looking for more suggestions? Here is the complete list of our books in and about te reo, here are more books for kids that include te reo, and here is our list of novels and non-fiction.