Reporter John Boynton and camera operator Mark Chamberlain, from Three’s The Hui, spent two days filming in Central Otago, including at last month’s citizenship ceremony.
Mr Boynton said Central Otago District Mayor Tim Cadogan’s experience was a different perspective to explore for Mahuru Māori — an annual month-long effort to normalise the use of te reo.
"I know he’s in the early stages of his reo journey ... it’s never too late."
The citizenship ceremony, which included karakia, waiata and whakataukī [proverbs], was the best example of the changes Mr Cadogan had helped encourage at the council, Mr Boynton said.
"[New citizens] come into the ceremony and they feel really welcome into Aotearoa."
Mr Cadogan said he was honoured to be part of the show and while he was "a thousand miles from fluent", it was important to show all stages of learning te reo.
While Central Otago had a low Māori population, the language still had a place in the district, he said.
"What I get from Māori colleagues and friends all the time is ‘just try’.
"We’re growing into it as opposed to it being always here like in the North Island. It’s all part of the journey."
The citizenship ceremony was a perfect example of how important te reo was, particularly to newcomers.
"It’s an integral part of who we are as Aotearoa New Zealand and a very special, special part," Mr Cadogan said.
The Hui airs at 8.30pm, Monday nights on Three.
