As our journey continues, this page will grow into a collection of cultural terms, phrases, pronunciations, and expressions connected to our background, family life, and storytelling throughout yNot.
Over time, audio pronunciation clips will also be added to help readers hear and learn the terms more naturally.
This glossary will include:
- Te Reo Māori words
- Samoan phrases
- New Zealand expressions
- cultural references
- and terms commonly used throughout our blog series
Te Reo Māori
Kia ora
Meaning: Hello, greetings, thank you, acknowledgement of life.
A widely used Māori greeting in New Zealand that can also express warmth, appreciation, and respect.
[Audio pronunciation coming soon]
Whānau
Meaning: Family, extended family, community connection.
Often used in New Zealand to describe not only immediate family, but wider relational support systems and close connections.
[Audio pronunciation coming soon]
Samoan Terms
Talofa Lava
Meaning: Hello, warm greetings.
A respectful and welcoming Samoan greeting often used to acknowledge others warmly.
[Audio pronunciation coming soon]
New Zealand Expressions
Jandals
Meaning: Flip-flops / sandals.
A commonly used New Zealand term.
Dairy
Meaning: Local convenience store or corner shop.
Coming Soon
This glossary will continue expanding as new terms, phrases, and cultural references appear throughout our blog series and memoir content.