N.Z.B.C. Maori

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31327, 25 March 1967, Page 12

N.Z.B.C. Maori

Sir, —“Sophocles” writes: “If an announcer says Paraparam, Tai Tap, or Lake Wakitip, we all know what he means.” I beg to differ. Perhaps people living in New Zealand may have a fair idea where the place might be; but take the person like myself who has only a map and dictionary. We visitors try to pronounce these names as the dictionary explains, only to show our ignorance because the name has been abbreviated or given a typically English pronunciation. The Maori language is picturesque and beautiful. The pakeha has desecrated practically everything else the Maori held sacred. Please, not the language also!—Yours, etc., (MRS) O. HOWES. Hunterville, March 20, 1967. Sir, —We cannot do better than consult that grand old man of letters, Professor Arnold Wall. I quote his words so aptly written in “New Zealand English—How it should be Spoken.” “We are indeed

fortunate in having at nearly all the main broadcasting stations in New Zealand announcers who realise their responsibilities in this respect, have made a close study of the Maori language, received assistance from natives, and pronounce all Maori names and words in the correct manner. The correct pronunciation of Maori names should be carefully taught to children in schools, by both example and precept. If the teachers do their duty their influence, together with that of the best announcers, may go far to banish from this country the unlovely distortions of Maori words which now disfigure our language,” —Yours, etc., MARJORY W. ASTLEY. March 24, 1967.

Sir, —“Sophocles” suggests making the Maori language easier. I lived with the Maoris in the King Country for many years and I fail to see how any change in the language could possibly make it any easier. Maori pronunciation is much simpler than English, so why complicate it by trying to anglicise it? As for turning an oven (umu) into a ram, well, that speaks for Itself. To quote a prominent citizen of Paraparaumu, “It is idiotic!” Congratulations to our radio and television announcers on t’ eir excellent pronunciation of our Maori words, and may they be allowed to continue as in the past. Why not do the job correctly and show some intelligence?—Yours, etc., “TINI TAIHOA.” March 23, 1967.