Keeping Gagana Tokelau alive in New Zealand

As Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland’s Pacific Media Adviser, Kim Meredith (Fakaofo in Tokelau, and Togafuafua, Fuipu’a in Sāmoa) focuses on elevating the mana of Pacific research and communities – and language revitalisation plays a big part.

But this week carries special significance for her. With Tokelauan Language Week in full swing, Kim is embracing this year’s theme: “Tokelau, tāofi mau tau aganuku, ko tō pale tēnā — Tokelau, holdfast to your culture, that is your crown.”

For Kim, it’s a powerful reminder of why Gagana Tokelau (the Tokelauan language) must thrive.

She says language is more than just words to many Tokelauans, it’s a way to stay connected to their roots.

LISTEN TO KIM TALKING TO JESSE MULLIGAN ON RNZ

“I feel like I’m just beginning my journey with Gagana Tokelau, though I have a better grasp of Gagana Sāmoa. Learning Tokelauan is like knowing the tune of a song but still searching for the words,” she explains.

Kim’s journey is even more challenging given that Tokelau is so small, with just over 1,500 people still on the islands, while 7,000 call New Zealand home, primarily in Tāmaki Makaurau and Pōneke.

“Our language is at risk, labelled ‘severely endangered’ by UNESCO. Fewer than 5,000 people speak Tokelauan worldwide, so the fight to keep it alive is real,” she says.

The remoteness of the islands also makes it difficult to sustain large populations, leading to limited resources and intentional population control to maintain a sustainable way of life.

Away from her homeland, Kim recalls learning Tokelauan words with her grandmother, Akenese Pereira, whose patience and encouragement made all the difference. 

“My grandmother would patiently encourage me to try new words. As a learner, you feel vulnerable, but she made it feel okay. She’d just be there, supporting me, no judgement.”

Kim believes that even speaking just a little Tokelauan bridges gaps across generations and strengthens connections with family and culture. The commitment to honour the language goes beyond vocabulary, it’s about staying connected to the roots and history. “It’s either use it or lose it,” she says.

“What’s difficult about learning is the vulnerability in trying,” she admits. “You catch yourself waiting for people to correct you, or even worse, laugh at you. But then you remember the act of speaking your language, despite proficiency, immediately connects you to your family, your culture, and your history. That’s so special and empowering.

"My grandmother had a huge influence on my life; she was definitely one of my heroes. From her, I learned the value of compassion and the importance of community – a core value for Tokelau.”