OurfavouritetereoMāoriphrases

We recently worked with the wonderful people at the Te Murumāra Foundation on the re-hosting and upgrades to their website, the Māori Dictionary, as well as the redevelopment of the Te Aka Māori Dictionary app.

During this time, we all had a great opportunity to explore the app and website and along the way, we’ve been able to learn some new te reo Māori words and phrases. So we wanted to share with you some of our new favourites.

Whai ā te waka

Paddle your own canoe. A bit like saying fill your boots. A delightful description, apt for someone who beats to the sound of their own drum.

Mā te wā

See you later. Although be super careful on the pronunciation of the mā using a long “aa” sound,  as this friendly ‘see you later’ expression could otherwise refer to death. RIP. 

Kaitiakitanga

The process and practices of protecting and looking after the environment for future generations are referred to as Kaitiakitanga. A Kaitiaki is a guardian of the sky, sea, and land. A great concept that captures a part of Māori culture and values.

Less hui, more do-y

A hui is to hold a meeting or discussion. This expression is a wonderful amalgamation of Māori and English, to mean less talk and more doing. Strictly speaking, not an ‘official’ phrase, but a satisfying quip to use if you find yourself in an onslaught of meetings.