Cook Islands Language
Cook Islands Maori (or Rarotongan) is the main language, although most people speak English as well. This makes it an ideal destination for English-speaking visitors. However, learning a few local words, such as kia orana (hello) and meitaki (thank you) is a sure way to win a smile.
Useful Words
- kia orana = hello
- aere ra = goodbye
- meitaki = thank you
- ae = yes
- kare = no
- tane = man
- vaine = woman
- manea = pretty/handsome
- ura = to dance
- mataora = happy
- kai = food
- teia ra = today
- apopo = tomorrow
- ra = sun
- marama = moon
- moana = ocean
- maunga = mountain