This time last year, the first drop of official Kia Kaha te Reo Māori clothing flew off the shelves in just a few hours, and now it's back.
Just in time for Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, which kicks off next week, The Warehouse have teamed up with Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori (Māori Language Commission) again to bring Kiwis the goods.
A fresh range of gears will be available online and in stores across the motu from this Friday, including new colours, a cap for summer and sizes all the way up to 5XL.
There will be even more options for tamariki this year, with t-shirts and a 3-pack of baby bodysuits for "the littlest reo Māori supporters".
More than 74,000 items of Kia Kaha te Reo Māori merch have sold since the first range dropped, proving just how many Kiwis are keen to rep the much-loved heitiki icon and support the language.
"Te reo Māori is New Zealand’s language,” Māori Language Commission Chief Executive Ngahiwi Apanui-Barr said.
"Whether it’s pēpi, pakeke or kaumātua, these kākahu are easily accessible for everyone to show their support for te reo Māori.
"That kind of visibility sends a powerful message - our language lives in our homes, our hearts, and across generations."
Ngahiwi reminded people that the Kia Kaha te Reo Māori branding is still available online for anyone to download and print to make their own gears, they just can't be sold.
The Warehouse's Carrie Fairley said the response to last year's range of merch was "phenomenal".
"As a Kiwi retailer, we’re committed to supporting te reo Māori – not just through this range, but in our stores, and with our people.”
2025 marks the 50th anniversary of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, so there's never been a better time to wear your support on your sleeve.
