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3.3 Te Reo

Pronunciation of Te Reo Māori is important because mispronunciation can change the meaning of a name or word. It's also a sign of respect; pronouncing a person’s name incorrectly can give the impression that you don't really care about them, or you value them less than others. A person’s name is an extension of who they are and is rooted in their language, culture, and identity so by pronouncing a name correctly, it affirms that person and may add to his or her self-worth.

Standard - what we'll be assessing on Evidence to provide for assessment

The practice ensures all team members are supported with pronouncing te reo.
  • Te reo Māori signage and resources.
  • Activities/resources to assist the team to use correct te reo pronunciation, particularly Māori patients’ names

Pronunciation of te reo Māori is important because mispronunciation can change the meaning of a name or word. It's also a sign of respect; pronouncing a person’s name incorrectly can give the impression that you don't really care about them, or you value them less than others. A person’s name is an extension of who they are and is rooted in their language, culture, and identity so by pronouncing a name correctly, it affirms that person and may add to his or her self-worth.

The Journal of Primary Health Care published a study on the value of te reo in primary care as a determinant of healthcare. The three main findings were:

  • The participants reported that name mispronunciation led them to feel belittled or unwelcome in the clinic and discouraged them from attending again.
  • The use of te reo helped form positive relationships with their general practice.
  • Participants felt strongly that future health care for Māori should encompass the use of te reo.
Dr Jason Tuhoe and his daughter
Dr Jason Tuhoe pushes his daughter on a swing. Many of Dr Tuhoe's consultations are done in Te Reo Māori, the first language of his patients.

"A really easy thing that anyone can do to create an environment inclusive of te ao Māori is to learn proper pronunciation of Māori words, particularly names. A basic proficiency in te reo Māori is a good place to start – a love and respect for the language can lead people to act more courageously in medical practice,"”

Professor David Tipene-Leach

Incorporating te reo into general practice

Some ideas to consider:

  • Proper pronunciation – a person skilled in Te Reo assists the team with knowledge of correct pronunciation.
  • Use Te Reo to label doors of rooms.
  • Have a word/sentence of the week.
  • Use Māori greetings.
  • Have a karakia to open and close meetings.
  • Encourage and assist team members to learn their pepeha.

Links to resources