Simon Power tests out the new translation system. Pic: NZPA

Wellington, Feb 9 NZPA - MPs scrambled for their earpieces as they prepared to receive simultaneous translation of Maori into English for the first time in Parliament today.

As MP Te Ururoa Flavell spoke in Maori to the House, one of four interpreters translated from an equipped studio adjacent to the debating chamber.

The service was set to keep debate flowing in Parliament and starts when a member begins talking in Maori.

Speaker Lockwood Smith, who launched the new service today, said simultaneous interpretation would enable Maori speakers to give full expression to their speeches in the House without the disruption of stopping for interpretation.

"The move reinforces the growing use of Maori in political affairs, society and New Zealand culture generally," he said.

Gallery visitors can also receive an earpiece and get access to a receiver on request.

Wiremu Haunui, together with Hohepa MacDougall, and father and son, Rangi McGarvey and Paiheke McGarvey, will be responsible for the interpretation.

Parliamentary TV viewers have audio choice with live coverage. The default audio stream is English/Maori, but there is also a choice of "English only," which is an audio stream switched to sound from the interpreter's booth when Maori is spoken.

"Choosing an alternative audio stream while watching television will be a new experience for most New Zealanders and because of the range of products and services available, viewers may need to experiment," Dr Smith said.

When using the internet for web-streaming a selection will be required before starting the media player.

Dr Smith said the interpretation does not form part of the official record of the House proceedings.

"It is a service provided to the House to facilitate debate and any speeches in te reo Maori will be transcribed and translated for publication in Hansard which is the official record of debates in the House," he said.

The one-off cost of installing the system was about $320,000.