How does the Māori language play a role in preserving New Zealand's indigenous culture?

One of the main ways that te reo Māori helps to preserve indigenous culture is through the oral transmission of stories, songs, and proverbs (whakataukī). These narratives serve as both entertainment and vehicles for teaching important life lessons, reflecting the spiritual beliefs and cultural values of the Māori people. Furthermore, many Māori art forms, such as carving and weaving, are heavily influenced by the language, as patterns and symbols often represent important linguistic or cultural concepts.