Olympian Eliza McCartney highlights importance of te reo Māori for all New Zealanders

AUCKLAND — Olympic pole vaulter Eliza McCartney has spoken out about the vital role te reo Māori plays in the identity of Aotearoa, urging all New Zealanders to consider learning the language. Reporting from Te Ao Māori News on Thursday, 8 October 2026, McCartney shared insights into her personal commitment to the language over the last several years. While McCartney noted that she does not have Māori whakapapa (ancestry), she believes the journey of learning te reo is significant for everyone living in New Zealand. Her advocacy comes at a time of growing public interest in the revitalisation of the indigenous language, reflecting a shift toward wider cultural integration and understanding. McCartney’s te reo journey began a few years ago, and she continues to emphasize that the language is a foundation for all who call New Zealand home. Her stance as a high-profile athlete provides a platform to encourage others to engage with Māori culture and linguistics in a meaningful, respectful way. Te Ao Māori News, a Whakaata Māori publication, highlighted McCartney's perspective as part of its ongoing coverage of indigenous stories and cultural heritage. The athlete’s commitment serves as a positive example of how non-Māori New Zealanders can actively support and participate in the preservation of the country’s first language.