Cabinet has agreed to enact the Maori Language Bill in English and Māori.
Maori Development Minister Te Ururoa Flavell said it was a landmark decision and the bill being in dual languages would mean reo Maori text would prevail in law.
The Cabinet also approved including Urban Maori in Te Matawai membership, and maintaining Te Taura Whiri and Te Mangai Paho as Crown Entities.
The proposals further supported the goal of strengthening a strong Crown and Maori partnership for coordinating efforts to revitalise te reo Maori, Mr Flavell said.