Maori TV has accused its rival TV3 of racism after it broadcast an item lampooning what its coverage of the Rugby World Cup would look like.

Pita Sharples says he will apologise to John Key for not discussing in detail Te Puni Kokiri's $3m deal to support Maori TV's Rugby World Cup bid.

John Key has rejected Maori Party suggestions that concern over the Maori TV bid for Rugby World Cup free-to-air coverage has racist undertones.

Maori TV will be expected to show Rugby World Cup matches to all NZ if it wins coverage rights, the Maori Affairs Minister says.

Maori TV's Rugby World Cup commentary would mainly be in English but 5 to 10 per cent will be peppered with Maori phrases.

The Herald looks at some memorable one-liners and reworks them for Maori Language Week.

Short proverbial Maori sayings for readers to enjoy in Maori Language Week.

This week is Maori Language week. Read our editorial in te reo.