'Connect me to the traditions and culture of my homeland' or ''Ātuitui’ia au ki te au peu o tōku kāinga Ipukarea' is this year's theme for Cook Islands Language Week, also known as  ‘Epetoma o te reo Māori Kūki ‘Āirani.

The Cook Islands Language Week runs from Sunday July 30 to Saturday August 5 and the 2023 theme is an extension of last year's theme of ‘Ātuitui’ia au ki te Oneone o tōku ‘Ui Tupuna, or "connect me to the soil of my ancestors".

"Where last year's theme was an effort to bridge the 'disconnect' that many of our Cook Islands people are feeling, this year's theme focuses on deepening our people's connection to their culture, and ultimately, their language," says a Ministry for Pacific Peoples spokesperson.

"It focuses on connecting Cook Islanders to the traditions, cultures and dialects of their many islands."

Setting the theme for Epetoma o te reo Māori Kūki ‘Āirani has never been about stringing together beautiful words.

"It has always been about intentionally deepening the bonds of our people to their language through their familial ties, through the cultural traditions of their enua/vaka, and the songs, dance, and pe’e’s of their family.

"Together, these are the pillars that empower Cook Islanders to be proud in their culture, language and identity, ultimately reinforcing this year's theme of 'Ātuitui’ia au ki te au peu o tōku kāinga Ipukarea."

To follow the calendar of activities and events to be held through New Zeakabd to embrace and celebrate Cook Islands Language Week go to the Ministry for Pacific Peoples Cook Islands Language Week page here.

Stay connected online by visiting the official NZ Cook Islands Language Week Facebook page.