Learn Maori.
Te Reo Maori
Learn Te Reo Maori with a course that respects tikanga (cultural protocol) and teaches the language in its cultural context -- not as an academic exercise.
Start your Maori courseWhy Maori
Te Reo Maori is the indigenous language of Aotearoa New Zealand, spoken by a growing number of people thanks to dedicated revitalization efforts. It's a Polynesian language with connections to Hawaiian, Samoan, and Tongan.
Learning Te Reo is an act of cultural engagement. The language is inseparable from Maori values, customs, and ways of seeing the world. Maia teaches Te Reo with respect for this context.
What makes Maori challenging — and how Maia helps
Particle-based grammar
Maori uses particles to mark tense, aspect, and sentence roles instead of changing word forms. Maia teaches these particles in context so you develop an intuitive feel.
Vowel length matters
Long and short vowels distinguish different words in Maori. A macron (tohuto) marks long vowels. Maia drills this distinction from the start.
Cultural context is essential
Many Maori concepts don't translate directly into English. Words like mana, wairua, and tikanga carry cultural weight. Maia teaches vocabulary with cultural context, not just translation.
What your course includes
- •Conversational lessons with cultural context throughout
- •AI podcast episodes mixing Te Reo and English
- •Vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation exercises
- •Spaced repetition for vocabulary and particles
- •Adaptive curriculum based on your progress
Sample lesson topics
- 1.Pronunciation and greetings: kia ora and the mihi (introduction)
- 2.Vowels and consonants: the sounds of Te Reo
- 3.Sentence structure: particles and word order
- 4.Numbers, days, and telling time
- 5.The marae: vocabulary for Maori cultural spaces
- 6.Describing things: adjectives and possession
Free to start. No credit card required.