The Department of Corrections has been named a finalist in the 2011 Mâori Language Awards Government category, for excellence in te reo Mâori. 

The awards, hosted by Te Taura Whiri, aim to celebrate Mâori language regeneration and innovation.

Corrections Director Mâori Neil Campbell says the Department is helping contribute to the regeneration of te reo Mâori by encouraging the use of te reo and tikanga in a way that is meaningful and relevant for both offenders and staff.

“It is an honour to be named as a finalist in these awards. As Mâori offenders make up over half of the offender population, we need to succeed with Mâori in order to reduce re-offending overall.

“Through rehabilitation and reintegration programmes, offenders are given the opportunity to explore their culture and language and understand how the two can empower them to make better lifestyle choices.”

Tikanga Mâori is integrated into Corrections’ programmes, with a core component of te reo Mâori, and aims to motivate offenders to address their behaviour using Mâori philosophy, values, knowledge and practices. 

Corrections also offers therapeutic programmes which follow a bi-cultural therapy model and allow for psychologists to work with Mâori providers in a culturally appropriate way. 

“We encourage all staff to learn te reo Mâori, pronunciation and how to use te reo words in their everyday work. It’s permeating right through the organisation, we’re seeing our employees using more te reo in their email communication and correspondence, and becoming more comfortable using waiata, karakia and mihimihi,” says Neil.

“Whether or not we win an award, we will continue to invest in our staff capability in te reo and tikanga Mâori, and we will keep working towards succeeding with Mâori offenders.”

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ISSN 1178-8453

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