Speaking My Language by Mike McRoberts

Speaking My Language is an invitation into the private world behind one of Aotearoa’s most recognisable broadcasters. Mike McRoberts, long associated with composure and professionalism on screen, uses this book to explore the less visible layers of his life: a childhood in Ōtautahi marked by limited access to te ao Māori, a career that placed him firmly in the public gaze, and an internal longing to reclaim a language that should always have been his. The result is a compelling and generous account that blends personal narrative with cultural reflection, offering insight into the challenges and rewards of language revitalisation.

The book traces McRoberts’ upbringing in a mixed-heritage family at a time when te reo was seldom heard outside select communities. His early years reveal a deep disconnection that shaped his identity long before he could articulate its effects. That sense of absence follows him into adulthood, even as he builds a successful career in journalism. The polished presenter familiar to viewers existed alongside a quiet tension every time he uttered a simple greeting in te reo. This tension becomes a catalyst for change as he decides, later in life, to begin a deliberate journey towards reconnection.

McRoberts leads readers through the emotional and intellectual terrain of learning te reo Māori. He reflects on classroom experiences, encounters with tikanga, and the guidance of teachers and mentors who shape his understanding. The people he meets along the way are not simply supporting characters but integral parts of his transformation. Their presence underscores the communal nature of the language journey and the importance of relationships in rebuilding identity. The narrative makes space for vulnerability, acknowledging moments of discomfort and self-doubt, as well as the joy found in small milestones.

The book’s strength lies in its ability to hold personal story and cultural context together. McRoberts weaves his lived experiences with broader reflections on history, belonging and the ongoing revitalisation of te reo. The structure, anchored in whakataukī and shaped by Māori modes of storytelling, reflects the kaupapa at its heart. Rather than presenting his life chronologically, he builds a thematic account that mirrors the organic, often nonlinear nature of cultural rediscovery. This style gives the work an immediacy that suits its subject, allowing emotion, memory and insight to sit comfortably alongside one another.

McRoberts writes with clarity, warmth and a sense of humility. His style is conversational without losing depth, providing enough context for readers unfamiliar with te ao Māori while still speaking directly to those who recognise the nuances of his journey. The pacing allows his reflections to resonate without lingering too long on any one moment. It is an accessible text, yet layered enough to reward attentive reading.

As a contribution to contemporary New Zealand literature, Speaking My Language is significant. It offers a perspective shared by many Māori who grew up separated from their reo and are now working to reclaim it. It also serves as a bridge for non-Māori readers seeking to understand the emotional and cultural weight of language revitalisation. The book adds to the growing body of writing that situates identity, indigeneity and personal growth within the evolving landscape of Aotearoa.

Ultimately, McRoberts presents a narrative rooted in courage and hope. It affirms that reconnecting with one’s heritage is both a personal undertaking and a collective responsibility. Speaking My Language stands as a thoughtful, engaging and meaningful contribution to the stories of contemporary Māori experience.

Reviewer: Chris Reed

HarperCollins