From 27 October to 2 November 2024, New Zealand’s Tokelauan community will come together to celebrate Tokelau Language Week.
This year’s theme, ‘Tokelau tāofi mau tau aganuku ko tō pale tēnā – Tokelau, hold fast to your culture, that is your crown,’ reflects the importance of language and cultural traditions in shaping and sustaining Tokelauan identity.
Secretary for Pacific Peoples, Gerardine Clifford-Lidstone, speaks to the significance of this theme: "Cultural traditions and language are the crowning legacy of a people. Tokelau Language Week is a reminder of how vital it is to hold fast to these treasures and to continue passing them on to younger generations."
Despite a significant portion of New Zealand’s Tokelauan population being New Zealand-born, only 23% of Tokelauans in New Zealand report being able to speak te Gagana Tokelau. This highlights the urgency of language preservation efforts, particularly among younger generations, as only 13% of those under 15 years speak the language.
To support these efforts, the Ministry for Pacific Peoples, alongside the Tokelau Aotearoa Leaders Council and other community groups, has planned a series of events and resources. These will help promote te Gagana Tokelau through both in-person activities and online engagement.
"We encourage everyone to get involved – whether you’re learning a new phrase in te Gagana Tokelau or participating in a cultural activity, your contribution helps preserve this rich cultural heritage," says Gerardine.
Throughout the week, the Ministry’s website and social media will provide resources, including language guides, cultural stories, and event details.
"Fakafetai lahi lele – thank you very much to the Tokelauan community for your commitment to sustaining te Gagana Tokelau and your cultural heritage," adds Gerardine.
Visit the Tokelau Language Week page for more information on Tokelau Language Week events and resources. Follow the official Tokelau Language Week Facebook page for updates and content throughout the week.
Media contact: Director, Communications, Jaimee Burke at [email protected] or 0220114670.