Learn a few everyday Cook Islands Māori phrases, hear recorded pronunciation where available and discover local music before you fly.
Cook Islands Tourism describes Kia Orana as more than hello: it carries the wish that you may live long and have a fulfilling life. English and Cook Islands Māori are both official languages.
Hello / welcome — also a blessing: may you live long
Break it down: ki-a o-ra-na
Thank you / good / well / OK
Break it down: mei-ta-ki
Thank you very much
Break it down: mei-ta-ki ma-a-ta
Goodbye
Break it down: a-e-re ra
How are you?
Break it down: pe-e-a ko-e
I am well
Break it down: mei-ta-ki a-u
What is your name?
Break it down: ko-ai to-ou i-ngo-a
My name is [name]
Break it down: ko [name] to-ku i-ngo-a
Yes
Break it down: a-e
No
Break it down: ka-re
Good luck
Break it down: ki-a ma-nu-i-a
The Constitution declares Te Atua Mou E as the national anthem of the Cook Islands. Listen to the Poly Songbook rendition performed by Teremoana Rapley, then use the official constitutional text for the anthem words and translations.
Visitors do not need to speak Cook Islands Māori fluently. A genuine Kia Orana or Meitaki is an easy way to acknowledge the language and the people who are hosting you.
Meitaki ma'ata = thank you very much.
This is a curated starter list, not an official chart. It mixes pioneering Cook Islands music, iconic hits, string-band sound and more contemporary favourites.
Cook Islands Tourism describes Island Nights as performances combining drumming, song, dance, storytelling and food. Rarotonga.co.nz should connect this language-and-music page directly to current Island Night listings and Te Maeva Nui when dates are live.
Explore cultural experiences