New Chair for Māori Language Commission
Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori welcomes Professor Rawinia Higgins as the new chair of its Board of Commissioners.
Chief Executive Ngahiwi Apanui says: “Professor Higgins is a tertiary education leader, an expert in language revitalisation and brings with her a whānau legacy of contribution to the development of te reo Māori. She is also one of the architects of Te Whare o te Reo Mauriora, the policy framework that guides the partnership between the Crown and Māori for revitalisation.”
Professor Higgins is the first woman to be appointed to the position.
Mr Apanui says: “This is wonderful and long overdue. It recognises the important role Māori women have played in the effort to retain te reo Māori. After 31 years it is wonderful to finally have a woman chair.”
“The Minister for Māori Development also announced the reappointment of Ngāi Tahu Māori language leader Charisma Rangipunga as Deputy Chair of the Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori Board of Commissioners. Both of these women contributed to the current Māori language legislation alongside current board member Charlie Tepana. Collectively their knowledge of the legislation will provide strong leadership for the organisation.”