Under the new project, called He Toki Reo, wristbands are given to Maori language users to identify them and encourage conversation in te reo between band wearers.
Maori Studies programme co-ordinator and He Toki Reo organiser Tangiwai Rewi said it was important to encourage the use of te reo.
"The problem is everyone thinks the Maori language is very safe, but it's not.
"It is not off the endangered list yet.''
The initiative was based on the ZePA model of Maori language revitalisation, she said.
Developed by Te Tumu Dean Poia Rewi and Prof Rawinia Higgins, the model argues the biggest challenge to the revitalisation of the Maori language is moving the population from minimal support, acceptance, or use to passive acceptance and use.
Mrs Rewi hoped the bands would contribute to Maori becoming a "living language'' on campus.
"That means the stigma of speaking Maori when you are not fluent will be gone and it will become commonplace among staff and students.''
More than 2000 blue and yellow bands had been distributed between the university's campuses in Dunedin, Invercargill, Christchurch and Wellington.
Maori studies student Maiora Puketapu-Dentice said since putting on the band two months ago she had connected with many te reo speakers.
"It is just another way to connect with the language and people who speak it.''
Faculty of Law project officer Richman Wee said he hoped the project would renew an interest in learning te reo.
"I first arrived in this country 30 years ago and when I first heard the national anthem being broadcast it was in Maori and I sang along with it many times.''
He felt "honoured'' to be able to promote the project in the law department.
It was hoped the project would eventually be expanded to provide wristbands to other te reo speakers in the community.
