The Māori Language Commission, Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori, says te reo Māori has united people since it became an official language of New Zealand 35 years ago today.
The commission says some people warned the Māori Language Act passed on August the first 1987 would divide New Zealanders.
40 percent of New Zealanders aged 15 to 34 can now speak more than a few words or phrases.
Māni Dunlop spoke to Taura Whiri chief executive Ngahiwi Apanui who said although many gains have been made - there was still a long way to go.
