Google Aotearoa ~ starting soon

[Potaua]

Morena whanau

We hope you are well on this countdown to Christmas.

Just a quick note to let you know that Google Aotearoa (Google Maori
2) is about to get started on translating Google Wireless, Google
Groups (that's this function!!) and Picassa2, the photo sharing
programme.

As many of you know, this time we have the backing of Te Wananga o
Aotearoa and Te Taura Whiri i te reo Maori, as well as many kura,
Maori businesses and community leaders. On the not-so-good side, we
only have 12 months to complete all the translations!!

If you were involved in Google Maori, you'll remember how much fun was
had but how much hard work it all was. With over 7,500 words to
translate, it took lots of people over 7 years and thousands of hours
to complete. This time, we have 8,000 words and only 12 months to
finish (a deadline set so that we could get these services launched as
soon as possible).

Now if it all sounds too much, please don't leave.

For those wanting to assist with translations, you will be working
alongside some of the preeminent language practitioners, which will be
invaluable in itself. You could also help discuss new Maori words to
adequately capture the english equivalent.

We will be bringing together an Advisory Group, consisting of kaumatua
who want to add their support by affirming the cultural importance of
the project and kuia, koroua who wish to protect the sacred nature of
te reo Maori, especially in this digital realm.

There will also be a Digital Coordination Crew, responsible for
securing our online environment and managing digital exchanges. They
will be responsible for developing a website that tracks the project,
as well as updating content regularly. In addition will be a dynamic
Communications Team who will help promote Google Aotearoa and also
shine the light on our supporters, as well highlight kaupapa of the
project and the people involved.

Also, this time around we hope to have access to funding (more on that
soon...)

If this sounds like you, please post a message and we'll let you know
more details about the first meeting in late January 09.

All going well, we will launch these functions in December 09, in
early anticipation of school returning in 2010 (which isn't too far
away).

So, if you again want to help, please let me know your details, how
much time you have available and which area you want to be involved
in. There is something for everyone and once we get going, it will be
essential to keep pace and keep informed.

If you have any questions, please contact myself
pot...@tangatawhenua.com or niko...@tangatawhenua.com.

Thank you all and please be safe these holidays,

Nga mihi aroha,
na Potaua & Nikolasa Biasiny-Tule
www.tangatawhenua.com
"Google Aotearoa"