Pride of NZ: Te reo advocate shocked by nomination

Hokimoana Te Rika-Hekerangi has spent her life educating people in the art of te reo Maori.

Her mission to preserve the Maori language has extended beyond the reaches of her community to accommodate wider New Zealand and abroad.

It is for her resilient dedication to teaching others that Ms Te Rika-Hekerangi has been nominated in the Community Spirit category of the Pride of New Zealand Awards.

Ms Te Rike-Hekerangi, 76, was born and raised in Ruatahuna with her tribe and elders of Tuhoe and is described as having strong family values, surrounding herself with her nine children, 57 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Ms Te Rika-Hekerangi is most known for translating English books into traditional Maori compositions for Ruatahuna Turangi but has also taught the language at public institutions around New Zealand and Australia.

When asked about her nomination for a Pride of New Zealand award, Ms Te Rika-Hekerangi said she was both surprised and shocked.

"I do what I can to the best of my ability for the survival of my people, not for awards. I had a very simple, humble upbringing but it was rich in culture and I want to keep that alive to give younger people an opportunity to experience their heritage."

Anyone can nominate people for a Pride of New Zealand Award they feel are unsung heroes working hard to make a difference within their community. The awards are being held in association with the Rotorua Daily Post, The New Zealand Herald, The Hits radio station and TSB Bank.

The six categories honour bravery and heroism, community spirit, environmental leaders, emergency heroes and fund-raisers.

A special lifetime achievement award will be given and there is a people's choice award. For more information and to nominate visit the Pride of New Zealand website www.prideofnzawards.co.nz.