Did you know that Cook Islands Maori make up 22% of New Zealand's Pacific population?  80% live in Auckland, and most are younger than 20. 

But, only 16% of Cook Islanders living in New Zealand say they are able to hold an everyday conversation in Cook Islands Maori. 

Youth increase and language decline has prompted community and church leaders in Auckland to advocate teaching and learning Cook Islands Maori. Taking up the challenge, the Faculty of Arts reintroduced Cook Islands Maori in 2009. 

Why study Cook Islands Maori?

Studying Cook Islands Maori gives you a fascinating insight into the second largest Pacific ethnic group in New Zealand. Our courses will give you a basic grounding in the written and spoken language, and allow you to understand and participate in the Cook Islands' rich heritage of song, dance, oratory, art and literature.

You will also gain a deeper appreciation of related languages like Tahitian, Hawaiian, and Te Reo Mäori.

Although you will primarily study Rarotongan, , you will also be introduced to all our dialects of Maori (from Mangaia, Atiu, Ma'uke, Miti'aro, Aitutaki, Manihiki, Rakahanga, Tongareva) and the unique language of Pukapuka.

You can also take courses in Cook Islands Maori as part of Pacific Studies.

View scholarships and prizes available in Pacific Studies. 

View resources for Pacific Studies students.

Cook Islands Maori and your career

Your study with the Centre for Pacific Studies will be useful for careers in education, the public service, social services and welfare, business, marketing, journalism, language teaching, interpreting and translation.