As Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori (Māori Language Week) approaches, we are thrilled to announce a special collaboration between Aotahi (School of Māori Indigenous Studies) and UC Māori that aims to bring us all together at Café Reo lead by Maria Cooper. This event is designed to provide a space for practicing and honing your te reo Māori skills, all while sharing delicious kai (food) and fostering a sense of connection.

This occasion also aligns with Mental Health Awareness Month, during which our focus is on cultivating meaningful connections.

Café Reo is more than just an event; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Māori language and engage in conversations. Set in the inviting and welcoming environment of Te Ao Marama, Café Reo is a regular 1-hour social connection class held every Tuesday afternoon. This inclusive gathering welcomes both tauira (students) and kaimahi (staff) with open arms, creating an atmosphere of unity and learning.

No prior experience is necessary to participate – whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just starting to explore the intricacies of the language, Café Reo is the perfect space to learn and grow together. Alongside the vibrant conversations, we’ll also be serving a delightful array of kai and hot inu (drinks).

If you’re curious or have any questions about this event, please don’t hesitate to reach out to stephenie.vandenanker@canterbury.ac.nz. We’re here to provide any information you need.