A Waikato-Tainui kaumatua who's been involved in translating the Islamic holy book, the Koran, into Te Reo says it will help with a better understanding between Maori and the Islamic world.
The translated work, which has taken 25 years to complete, will be officially launched on Friday. On Tuesday a copy was presented to the Maori King, Tuheitia, by the spiritual leader of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community.
The Caliph, His Holiness Mirza Masroor Ahmad, was welcomed with a powhiri at Turangawaewae Marae on Tuesday.
Eru Thompson says although it took a long time to finish, the translation wasn't too difficult a task.
He says he wanted to ensure the Maori translations captured the right spirit and meanings of the verses in the Koran.
Mr Thompson says it is important that the Maori version of the Koran is balanced with the language it was translated from, so that it portrays the full potential of the Muslim faith.
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