Telcos take on criticism over te reo moves

AUCKLAND: Two of the country’s biggest mobile networks have joined forces in a social media takedown of customers criticising their moves to embrace te reo Maori.

Vodafone changed its network name from VF New Zealand to VF Aotearoa at the end of Maori Language Week as part of its ongoing support for te reo Maori.

While many have welcomed the move to embrace the indigenous name for the country, some social media users expressed their disdain.

Vodafone New Zealand responded, saying the recent network name change to VF Aotearoa was ‘‘simply to celebrate one of the three beautiful official languages we have here in New Zealand/Aotearoa’’.

‘‘There are no plans to change it at this stage.’’

Fellow mobile network 2degrees joined the action, opening with a ‘‘kia ora!’’ greeting.

Spark also responded to a commenter, saying although Maori Language Week was over, te reo Maori was a ‘‘normal part of our country’’.

‘‘We will continue to encourage and give tools to those who wish to expand their knowledge and cultural understanding.’’

Vodafone New Zealand head of Maori development Kirstin Te Wao said it was encouraging to see competitors publicly support the two companies, even in the face of criticism.

‘‘We’re proud to be part of the community here in Aotearoa and we’re fortunate to use our voice and platforms to positively support the Maori culture and language.’’

A spokeswoman for 2degrees said the company celebrated all cultures and beliefs, and ‘‘takes real pride in our diverse and multicultural workforce and nation’’.

‘‘We support all three official languages in New Zealand, though it’s fair to say we’re very early on in our te reo journey,’’ she said. — The New Zealand Herald