Maori Language Week kicks off today, with it marking its 50th anniversary

The week celebrating Te Reo, grew from a single Maori Language Day that began 1972.

Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Maori Chief Executive Ngahiwi Apanui-Barr says the idea of expanding to a full week started in 1975.

She says since its humble beginnings it's grown to a nationwide movement for all New Zealanders.

Apanui-Barr says this year she wants Kiwis to commit and try make Te Reo Maori a part of daily life, as every word counts.