As it’s Māori Language Week, we asked people from around Te Papa to share their favourite te reo Māori kupu (word). We want to hear what yours is too! Let us know in the comments.
Āwhina
Meaning: To assist, help, support, benefit
‘This word sums up the mahi (work) that my team National Services Te Paerangi does around the motu (country). Therefore it’s my favourite word. I really believe in the work that we do and love seeing communities connecting to taonga and stories.’
– Victoria, Head of National Services Te Paerangi
Menemene
Meaning: Smile!
– Moana, Kaitiaki Māori Collection Manager
Whakarongo
Meaning: To listen, hear, obey
– Rangimoana, Tour Host
Morimori
Meaning: To caress, nurture, look after
‘I was introduced to this word by our Māori writer Ranea when he was coming up with the te reo Māori interpretations of common agile terms. ‘Te āta morimori’ means ‘high care’, based on ‘morimori’ meaning to take care of something, to nurture it. It feels like a word full of passion and love for whatever is in your hands, be it a child or something you are working on.’
– Daniel, Senior Digital Editor
Matihiko
Meaning: Digital
‘Matimati (fingers/digits) + hiko (electricity) = digital!’
– Haley, Education Specialist
Kumanu
Meaning: To tend carefully, foster, attend to, care for, cherish
‘Kumanu is a new word for me. It’s ideal to use when looking after someone who is sick. E kumanu ana ahau i tōku hoa/ I’m looking after my friend.’
– Joan, Kaiako
Mokonui
Meaning: Dinosaur
‘I learnt two extra words when I found out what the te reo was for dinosaur. One meaning of the kupu ‘moko’ is lizard, and ‘nui’ means big – so big lizard!’
– Rachael, Digital Editor
Toi kākahu
Meaning: Wearable art
‘It’s that time of year again, te wiki o te reo Māori and WOW is gonna hit Pōneke next month. Put ‘em together & whaddya get? Toi kākahu!’
– Paora, Iwi Development Advisor
Ihi
Meaning: Essential force, excitement, thrill, power, charm, personal magnetism
– Chloe, Graphic Designer
Kanikani
Meaning: To dance!
– Kate, Media Producer
