Book support for Te Reo

Press, 29 May 1985, Page 24

Book support for Te Reo

PA Wellington Educational television is branching out with the publication of two books by Katerina Mataira, presenter of the Maori language programme, “Te Reo.” The books, “Te Reo Books 1 and 2,” are designed to complement the first 15 of the 30-programme series, which is being repeated on TVI on Friday evenings. Another eight books, and a second series of “Te Reo” due to be screened next year, are planned. The Broadcasting Corporation’s publicity manager, Mr Neil Rowe, says it is the first time a New Zealand learning programme has been accompanied by its own series of graduated books. Mrs Mataira, who de-

signed the series and cowrote the two books with the late Mrs Ngoi Pewhairangi, said that because each programme was only five minutes long, there was not time to show the words used in printed form. “Obviously people need to see them as well as hear them and, I hope, say them,” she said. “The books are an integral part of the series, to be used after the programme as an aid to recalling what they have heard and said.” She said the programme was aimed at anyone who was serious about learning Maori, regardless of their age. The books would be available in ordinary bookstores, and a video and soundtape would also be available soon.