NZQA Audio Recording Trial – Te Hiranga Te Reo Māori

Information for schools and kura that are participating in NZQA's 2026 audio recording trial for Te Hiranga Te Reo Māori

Expressions of Interest

Thank you to the schools and kura that have confirmed their participation in NZQA's audio recording trial for Te Hiranga Te Reo Māori and provided their preferred dates for the trial, which will take place between 27 July and 5 August 2026.

About the trial

NZQA is trialling an audio-recording tool in its digital assessment platform.

The embedded audio tool allows ākonga to record their kōrero responses for Te Reo Māori and Te Reo Rangatira Scholarship examinations directly within the assessment platform.

This tool has been designed to support a smooth, intuitive experience for ākonga as they complete their digital assessments. 

This trial marks an important step forward in strengthening the digital delivery of Te Reo Māori and Te Reo Rangatira Scholarship examinations.

It also provides an opportunity for schools and kura to help explore innovative digital assessment approaches and contribute to the future development of audio response functionality in assessments.

Trial purpose

We aim to test the new audio-recording feature tool and gather valuable feedback from you.

Participating schools and kura will take part in 1 day of testing only during the trial period.

What to expect

  • The trial will be conducted in a mock examination environment at your school or kura.
  • Your nominated ECMs will receive guidance and support materials to prepare for the trial.
  • ECMs will have an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the audio recording tool before testing begins.
  • Participating ākonga will be invited to provide feedback on their experience after completing the trial.

ECMs' role

ECMs play an important role in ensuring the success of the trial. The estimated time commitment is 4 to 6 hours, including:

  • reviewing preparation and support materials
  • supporting the delivery of the trial
  • facilitating and providing feedback.

Preparing for participation

To ensure a smooth trial experience, participating ākonga should have access to:

  • a laptop or device with a microphone (built-in or external)
  • headphones.

Next steps

  1. Please download and familiarise yourself with the resources above
  2. Complete the Ākonga Trial Accounts sheet [DOCX, 109 KB] and email it to us by Tuesday 21 July 2026.

For more information about the trial, please email Aromatawai Māori