The PPTA says it has had policy supporting te reo Maori as a universal subject since 2001. Photo: Getty Images

Teachers around the country are congratulating the Green Party for its commitment to teaching te reo  Māori to every New Zealand child.

PPTA president Jack Boyle said the teachers' union has had policy supporting teaching the Maori language as a universal subject since 2001, so it was excellent to see a political party taking concrete steps towards achieving it.

"Being able to learn te reo  Māori will benefit every child in Aotearoa/New Zealand. Te reo Māori is part of the fabric of the economic, social and cultural history of all New Zealanders.

"Of course, having the right number of teachers of te reo is critical to the success of this policy. Currently, the demand for teachers of te reo  Māori outstrips supply."

Mr Boyle said there was a clear need for more teachers with appropriate skills and qualifications.

"Māori teachers are needed to provide the source for the teaching of Maori language and culture in the public education system.

"They are strong advocates for te reo  Māori within their schools,” he said.

“The policy is clear that capacity and supply issues must be addressed and we look forward to working together on a comprehensive plan.”