10 August 2018

Media: Stuff

Topic: Te reo Maori road signage

Inquiry

Questions follow:

1) NZTA is working with Rotorua Lakes Council to develop bilingual speed limit gateways signs - what's the current state of these talks?

2) The current traffic control devices rule is quite limited and restricts te reo gateway signs - what does the council want to see happen with this rule?

3) NZTA has started a project investigating what they can do in terms of using te reo within the boundaries of the current law, and how best to use/represent te reo māori on roadside infrastructure - what does Rotorua want to see happen?

Response

Please attribute the following statement to Rotorua Lakes Council's Kaiwhakahaere Māori, Gina Rangi:

Council is an active supporter of Rotorua Reorua. Our district made the commitment to advance as a bilingual city and district this time last year and we celebrate the initiative's first anniversary. This kaupapa (initiative), Rotorua Reorua, led by Council's partner Te Tatau o Te Arawa, has inspired and challenged us as residents to see how we can start or advance in our Māori language journey. Bilingual speed limit gateway signs are one of many reorua (bilingual) initiatives. With support from Te Tatau o Te Arawa, we are continuing to work with the New Zealand Transport Agency to develop a format for bilingual speed limit gateway signs on State Highways, which will complement local reorua road signs. This will also enhance other local kaupapa such as opening of one of the district's first reorua playground and the efforts of Rotorua businesses and groups that have adopted Māori and English signs. I've noticed an increase in stores that have served me in te reo Māori including our local Rebel Sports and McDonalds.