Marlborough Tennis Association Embraces Te Reo Māori with New Name and Logo
The Marlborough Tennis Association (MTA) proudly unveiled its new name in Te Reo Māori: "Wairau Poi Kake" alongside a refreshed logo at the Annual Veteran’s Tennis Tournament on Saturday. The launch was timed to align with Te Wiki o te Reo Māori (Māori Language Week), marking a meaningful step in the association’s journey toward deeper cultural connection.
The initiative began during a constitutional update, when the MTA Board Chair asked Dr Lorraine Eade to verify the te Reo translation of the association’s name. While the translation was technically correct, Dr Eade noted that it didn’t reflect the cultural nuances of naming in Te Ao Māori - the Māori world.
“That sparked a steep learning curve and some truly enriching conversations,” said the MTA Board Chair, Helen Redshaw. “Thanks to Shane Graham, CEO of Ngāti Rārua, we were gifted a name - Wairau Poi Kake - that beautifully captures the spirit of tennis. We are deeply honoured to receive this taonga.”
The new name translates as Rising Ball Marlborough. It speaks to the energy and movement of the game, and also symbolises the growth of players as they develop their skills.
Inspired by the new name, the MTA also redesigned its logo. Gone are the traditional crossed rackets and static tennis balls. In their place is a dynamic design that reflects the movement, vibrancy, and essence of tennis. The logo incorporates the letters M for Marlborough and W for Wairau, tying the visual identity to both place and purpose.
The name was officially launched by Lee Luke of Ngāti Rārua at a brief ceremony held just before the Veteran’s Tournament on Saturday 20th September. The timing was especially poignant, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Māori Language Week, whose theme this year is “Te Reo Māori: A Language for Ever.”
Lee explained the meaning of the new moniker and the symbolism of the name and the logo. The board chair gave a reply, thanking Lee, Lorraine Eade and Ngati Rarua. The brief ceremony concluded with a waiata and some kai, before the tournament kicked off in earnest.
The MTA extended that sentiment to the tennis court, encouraging players to embrace Te Reo Māori not just as a forever language, but as a language for everywhere, including sport. Players were invited to give Tennis-focused Te Reo a go, celebrating the language in action.
Players were provided with a language sheet for scorecards and were encouraged to call the score in Te Reo, despite the challenge this presented. Additionally, a list of simple encouragements: Ka pai, miharo, ka rawe, patua - was distributed. It’s been great as we are still hearing the reo at the courts in the weeks after the tournament”
“We wanted to make it clear that the MTA is an inclusive organisation and we welcome everyone to the tennis courts. Part of that was acknowledging and embracing tangata whenua. By integrating Te Reo Māori into its activities and identity, the association demonstrates its commitment to honouring and embracing Māori culture.”
Above left: MTA Board members: L-R: Liezell Van Wyk, Kerie Smith, Mary Stebbings, Helen Redshaw, Carmel Horsley
Above Right: Lee Luke from Ngāti Rārua shares the significance of Wairau Poi Kake
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