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