Learn your mihi

Learning a language is about starting out small and taking that first step. This year our team has a new challenge for New Zealanders: learn how to introduce yourself in te reo Māori by saying your name, where your ancestors come from - if you want to or can - and where you live.

A mihi (or mihimihi) is an introduction which can take place at the beginning of a gathering or meeting. It is used to establish links with other people present and let people know who you are, and where you come from. Being able to introduce yourself in te reo Māori is a helpful tool that we can all use in our everyday lives.

Watch the video below to get started.

If you need the written version it's here:

Step 1: Your name
My name is ____
Ko ____ tōku ingoa

EX

Tip: You can use your first name only or your full name. It's up to you!

 

Step 2: Where your ancestors come from (if you know)
My ancestors are from ____
Nō ____ ōku tīpuna

EX

Tip: Tīpuna (ancestors) is eastern dialect and tūpuna (ancestors) is western dialect. Kei a koe te whiringa - it's up to you which one you use. 

If you want to say more than one place name just add 'me' ('and') right before the final place name. I.e. Nō place #1 me place #2 ōku tīpuna (2 places) or Nō place #1 , place #2 me place #3 ōku tīpuna (3+). See Sonny use 'me' in the video above.

If you are from overseas try to find the Māori name for your country here.

 

Step 3: Where you live now
I live in ____
Kei te noho au ki ____

EX

Tip: Research and find the Māori place name for your town or city. It's important to know our history. You can search for Māori place names using Māori Dictionary.

 

And don't forget the macrons - they can change the meaning of a word!

 

To get started, tell us a little bit about your self and share your mihi. Hashtag #MyMihi to be featured!

Take part!