Cook Island language Week:

Celebrate: Sunday 30 July – Saturday 5 August

This year’s theme for ‘Epetoma o te reo Māori Kūki ‘Āirani – Cook Islands Language Week is 'Ātuitui’ia au ki te au peu o tōku kāinga Ipukarea, which means, "connect me to the traditions & culture of my homeland".

The 2023 theme is an extension of last year's theme of ‘Ātuitui’ia au ki te Oneone o tōku ‘Ui Tupuna, or "connect me to the soil of my ancestors".

Where last year's theme was an effort to bridge the 'disconnect' that many of our Cook Islands people are feeling, this year's theme focuses on deepening our people's connection to their culture, and ultimately, their language. It focuses on connecting Cook Islanders to the traditions, cultures and dialects of their many islands.

Setting the theme for Epetoma o te reo Māori Kūki ‘Āirani has never been about stringing together beautiful words. It has always been about intentionally deepening the bonds of our people to their language through their familial ties, through the cultural traditions of their enua/vaka, and the songs, dance, and pe’e’s of their family.

Together, these are the pillars that empower Cook Islanders to be proud of their culture, language and identity, ultimately reinforcing this year's theme of 'Ātuitui’ia au ki te au peu o tōku kāinga Ipukarea.

Watch for a calendar of activities and events to be held through Aotearoa to embrace and celebrate Cook Islands Language Week.  

Stay connected online by visiting the official NZ Cook Islands Language Week Facebook page.