RNZ Launches Reo Journeys: Te Pou Herenga Tai to Celebrate Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori

Radio New Zealand has unveiled a new addition to its digital storytelling lineup with the launch of Reo Journeys: Te Pou Herenga Tai on Monday, 14 September 2026. As reported by RNZ, the five-part bilingual podcast follows an ambitious travel adventure through Northland, conducted entirely on bicycles, or mā runga paihikara. Produced by Te Pūrongo Productions with support from Te Māngai Pāho, the series follows Eugene Bingham, Adam Dudding, and James Dansey as they travel the 87km cycle trail from Ōpua to Hokianga. The launch coincides with Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori, highlighting a commitment to normalizing the language through diverse media. During the trek, the team met with Far North District Mayor Moko Tepania, who discussed the linguistic vitality of Kaikohe. According to 2023 Census data, approximately 25 percent of the town’s 4700 residents speak te reo Māori. Tepania described the community as a place where the language is so integrated that a resident could spend an entire day without needing to speak English, citing local fixtures like the Rumaki Cafe where only te reo is spoken. The podcast records various facets of local culture, including the history of Ngāwhā Springs and the tupuna wahine Kareariki, who discovered them four centuries ago. At Ngāpuhi Road, the team interviewed the Wīhongi whānau regarding their connection to the whenua, and observed kaiwhatu extracting muka under the guidance of Makereta Jahnke. The series also examines historical minute books in the Pioneer Village courthouse, showcasing a region where the language is woven into daily life. This new series is part of a broader collection of 10 featured programs curated by RNZ to inspire listeners. Other notable offerings include Witi Underwater, featuring author Witi Ihimaera in a full-immersion course, and Matangireia, which examines the political legacies of Māori politicians. The curated list also includes Māpuna, hosted by Julian Wilcox, and the bilingual chatcast Paewhiri. By showcasing these stories, the broadcaster continues to facilitate a national kōrero about success and identity in Aotearoa through platforms that celebrate Indigenous linguistic heritage.