Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori, Māori language week, is in full swing with thousands turning out for a parade through central Wellington to kick off celebrations.
Organisers predict most people will speak the language within 100 years, and in Wellington Te Reo Māori echoes through the streets.
Nick MacDonald-Washburn says it's important he teaches his little one Te Reo Māori.
"My mum taught me and my brothers Te Reo and I feel obligated to hand that onto my children", he said.
Jessie Moss's children are Māori, and she learnt the language to pass it onto them.
She said it was a lot of hard work, "and you've got to be committed, and do it in the home is the most important, I think".
Some even learned a few new words while getting ready for the parade.
One young girl held a sign reading "He pai nga unicorn kia', meaning 'I like unicorns".
This years' theme is Kia Ora Te Reo Māori, which is a nod to our national greeting, and translates as "to let the Māori language live".
Ngahiwi Apanui, Māori Language Commission chief executive and organiser says while there are still concerns about the future of Te Reo Māori, with the help of all New Zealanders it can flourish.
"I think that probably within a 100 years there will be a minority of New Zealanders who won't speak Māori".
Poneke Mayor Justin Lester announced the city will soon be more Te Reo Māori friendly, with new Māori street and place names.
Mr Lester said Te Reo Māori had been revitalised, and they want to help encourage that.
Many others are also doing their bit.
Wharewaka café asked those who attended today's parade to try to order their coffee in Te Reo Māori.
Further, Moana in Te Reo Māori is set for release this week, along with workshops, music and other parades throughout the country.
Newshub.
