New Zealand has three ‘official’ languages: English; Māori and New Zealand Sign Language.
English is the most widely spoken language in New Zealand. It is the language commonly used in the courts, parliament, in the education system and by the public sector.
Māori and New Zealand Sign languages have been formally designated as ‘official languages’ and have special status under the law. People have the right to speak in Maori or New Zealand Sign Language and they can be used in legal proceedings with interpreters. Māori is also taught in most schools and there are Māori immersion educational facilities.