Languages in New Zealand

English is the main language used in most schools, workplaces, government services, media, and everyday communication in New Zealand. Many people also speak another language at home or in their community. Te reo Māori is the language of Māori, the Indigenous people of New Zealand. It is used in homes, schools, public ceremonies, media, workplaces, and cultural settings, with revitalisation efforts supporting wider learning and use. New Zealand Sign Language, often called NZSL, is the main language of the Deaf community in New Zealand. It is a visual language with its own signs, grammar, facial expressions, and ways of showing meaning. Language education may be English-medium, Māori-medium, bilingual, or focused on learning an additional language. Kura kaupapa Māori and other Māori-language settings place te reo Māori at the centre of learning. Children may encounter te reo Māori words, names, songs, greetings, and tikanga Māori in English-medium schools. The depth and structure of this learning can differ between schools and communities. New Zealand is also home to Pacific, Asian, European, Middle Eastern, African, and other language communities. Community languages help families maintain identity, relationships, cultural knowledge, and connections across generations. Using a language well involves more than memorising words. Learners also need pronunciation, listening, turn-taking, cultural understanding, and respect for how people introduce and use their language. Language access can affect education, healthcare, public services, and participation in society. Interpreters, translated information, visual communication, captions, and patient repetition can help people understand and be understood. A first step is to identify the languages used by the family or community, decide what kind of ability is needed, and choose regular opportunities for listening, speaking, signing, reading, or writing. Respectful use of names and pronunciation is a practical part of language inclusion.