Learning a few Māori words is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the Kiwi lifestyle, and you can get started before you even arrive! The Māori language, te reo Māori, is part of everyday life in Aotearoa (New Zealand), and knowing a few basic words can help you understand and follow conversations at school more easily. Don’t worry, English is the main language spoken, but there are a few key Māori words that all Kiwis know and use.
Here are 10 essential Māori words and phrases every international student should know:
- Kia Ora (kee-ah oar-rah)
Meaning: Hello, thank you, or a general expression of goodwill.
Kia ora is one of the most versatile and commonly used Māori phrases. You’ll hear it everywhere—from friendly greetings to a way of saying thanks.
- Whānau (fah-no)
Meaning: Family.
The concept of whānau goes beyond immediate relatives to include extended family and close-knit groups. In Māori culture, whānau represents connection, support, and belonging, which is why our school houses are referred to as Whānau.
International students will join one of our six Whānau when they start school and will have access to Whānau staff members who can help with any issues that may arise.
- Ngā mihi (Nah-mih-he)
Meaning: Thank you/with thanks
In Māori culture, showing gratitude is a core value, and the phrase ngā mihi is commonly used to express thanks or appreciation. You might see it at the end of emails and letters or hear it in speeches.
- Aroha (ah-roh-ha)
Meaning: Love, compassion, or empathy.
Aroha is a powerful word that reflects the warmth and kindness at the heart of Māori culture. You might hear it used to express care or goodwill toward others. It is also a popular women’s (wahine) name.
- Ka Pai (kah pie)
Meaning: Good, well done, or excellent.
A phrase of encouragement, ka pai is often used to express approval or praise. You might hear it after completing a task or as a compliment for something done well.
- Mana (mah-nah)
Meaning: Prestige, authority, or spiritual power.
Mana is a deeply significant term in Māori culture, referring to the respect and dignity a person holds based on their actions, character, and heritage.
- Whakapapa (fah-kah-pah-pah)
Meaning: Genealogy or ancestral heritage.
Whakapapa is about understanding and honouring your roots—where you come from and who you are connected to. It reflects the importance of ancestry and storytelling in Māori culture.
- Pōwhiri (poh-fih-ree)
Meaning: A formal welcome or welcoming ceremony.
A pōwhiri is a traditional Māori ceremony that involves speeches, waiata (songs), hongi (the pressing of noses), and finally a sharing of kai (food). All international students will be welcomed to Pakūranga College with a pōwhiri, led by our students and staff.
- Haere Rā (Hi-re-rah)
Meaning: Goodbye.
Haere rā is a way to say goodbye when someone is leaving. It’s often used to bid farewell to someone who is departing while you remain behind. For instance, if your friend is heading home after a study session, you could say, “Haere rā!”
- Mahi (mah-hee)
Meaning: Work, task, or job.
Mahi is a word commonly used in everyday conversations to refer to work or activities, whether it’s a task at school or in a job. Mahi also implies effort and dedication. You might hear it used in phrases like “Ka pai te mahi!” (Well done on the work!).
