Maori Language

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Essential Maori Words and English Definitions

Marae Maori meeting house
Haka chant with dance as greeting to visitors or challenge. Commonly known as the All Blacks Haka prior to a rugby game
Koha gift
Iwi people, nation, tribe
Pakeha New Zealander of European descent
Tamariki children
Tane man, men
Wahine woman, women
Whanau family
Waka canoe
Kai food
Maunga mountain
Moana sea
Motu island

Kaikoura sea food
Rangiora blue skies

Greetings:
Haerei Mai Welcome, come
Hei kona ra Good bye
Kia ora Hi, gidday
Morena good morning
Tena Koe formal greeting to one person
Tena Korua formal greeting to two people
Tena Koutou formal greeting to group of people
Tena Tatou Katoa formal inclusive greeting to all peple present including yourself

Helpful Maori Language Links:
Korero Maori Language Pronounciation
Maori Dictionary
NZ History Online "100 Maori Words Every New Zealander Should Know"