English
All New Zealanders speak English and many speak no other language, so it is essential that you can speak English well if you are to settle easily. It may take time to get used to the New Zealand accent, so you may have to ask people to talk more slowly, and to repeat what they have said. Do not be shy about this, most people will be intrigued by your interest and happy to help.
Māori
New Zealand Māori, the indigenous language of New Zealand, is spoken by about 50,000 Māori people and a growing number of Europeans. Interest in Māori language (te reo) has increased dramatically over the last 20 years. It is commonly heard on the marae and in rural areas where Māori people predominate. Māori language is also taught in schools and universities.
For more information, see The Treaty of Waitangi.
