He Waka Huia, He Waka Reo-ā-Iwi : The importance of reo-ā-iwi in identity formation

Abstract

Dialect is often described linguistically, but there is a dearth of research being conducted that looks at reo-ā-iwi (tribal language variation) from a sociolinguistic point of view and what it means to speakers of the Māori language. This thesis examines the features of reo-ā-iwi informed by thirteen participants who have tribal language characteristics in their speech. This research is centred around participants who are active members of their Māori communities, both linguistically and culturally. This research examines reo-ā-iwi and its connection to whakapapa (genealogy and layers of relationships), hau kāinga (home, home people), lexicon, phonology and speed. During the early period of Māori language revitalisation efforts, the homogenisation of the Māori language was necessary in order to build the capacity of Māori language speakers. In doing so, reo-ā-iwi was made less prominent. The relevancy of tribal dialects have made a comeback through various revitalisation strategies. This thesis will look at the concept of reo-ā-iwi as a marker of identity, its importance to Māori language speakers and different components of reo-ā-iwi according to the participants involved in this research.