# New appointment to Māori language Commission

Date: 5 Oct 2026
Released by: Hon Shane Jones

## MediaRelease.co Summary

Acting Māori Development Minister Shane Jones has appointed Julian Wilcox as Chair of the Māori Language Commission for a three-year term starting today. Jones said Dr Wilcox brings deep te reo Māori knowledge and governance experience. Outgoing chair Professor Rawinia Higgins was acknowledged.

## Original release

Julian Wilcox has been appointed Chair of the Māori Language Commission, Acting Māori Development Minister Shane Jones says. “Dr Wilcox brings a deep knowledge and practice of te reo Māori, strong governance capability, and a proven track record of leadership across both Māori and public sector settings,” Mr Jones says. “The Māori Language Commission plays a vital role in supporting and promoting te reo Māori. Dr Wilcox’s expertise and longstanding commitment to the Māori language makes him exceptionally well-placed to guide its ongoing work. Dr Wilcox’s three-year term begins today. Mr Jones also acknowledged outgoing Chair Professor Rawinia Higgins MNZM. “Prof Higgins has provided distinguished leadership to the Māori Language Commission and has made a significant contribution to the revitalisation of te reo Māori throughout her tenure. “Her commitment to strengthening the status, use, and visibility of te reo Māori has helped advance the aspirations of many whānau, communities, and organisations across New Zealand. I thank her for her service and wish her all the best for the future,” Mr Jones says.

## Key details

- Author/spokesperson: Hon Shane Jones
- Published: 5 Oct 2026
- Publisher country: New Zealand
- Subject country/region: New Zealand
- Original source: https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-appointment-maori-language-commission
- MediaRelease.co URL: https://mediarelease.co/nz/mr01222-new-appointment-to-maori-language-commission-05102026.html

Original source: https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-appointment-maori-language-commission
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