Recently The Herald reported the recovery at Massey University’s Wildbase Hospital, of a kiwi that had been hit by a car.
What got to me was the advice from the DOC biodiversity officer that the kiwi’s name “Tairei”, had been gifted to it by a maori outfit.
That’s world-class bullshit and a frequent occurrence. To gift something one must own it. No-one owns language.
We’re all well used to this maori name gifting nonsense. However, to show our appreciation I’ll reciprocate and gift the tattooed cowboy hat-wearing Maori Party temporarily MP, the name “Egbert Buffoon”. Indeed, as I’m in a generous mood I’ll also gift him the air he breathes. But henceforth he better behave himself or I might change my mind and that will be the end of him. He certainly won’t be missed.