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He Kete Kiwaha

A Practical Guide to Maori Idioms
By Hona Black
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Brief Description
Idioms – the everyday turns of phrase that give a language its character – are a key part of speaking fluently, and te reo Māori is rich in them. The title of this work translates into English as a basket of idioms. Drawing on extensive research... Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$3999
Elsewhere:
$4500
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- Comprehensive guide on Maori idioms - Bilingual with Maori on one page and English on the other - Essential reference guide for students and speakers of te reo Maori

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Idioms – the everyday turns of phrase that give a language its character – are a key part of speaking fluently, and te reo Māori is rich in them. The title of this work translates into English as a basket of idioms.

Drawing on extensive research and consultation with some of Aotearoa's leading reo experts – including Sir Timoti Karetu and Te Haumihiata Mason – teacher and language advocate Hona Black offers a comprehensive guide to more than 180 common kiwaha (idioms).

Each entry is graded for difficulty and supported with clear explanations, along with examples from written sources and examples created by the author.

As with his previous works, the book is fully bilingual, with Māori and English presented side by side. With additional space for readers to collect their own idioms, this can become a personal guidebook to enhancing your te reo.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781991353030

Publisher: Oratia Media

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 10 September 2026

Country: New Zealand

Imprint: Oratia Books

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 25.0mm

Width: 148.0mm

Height: 210.0mm

Weight: 650g

Pages: 408

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About the Author

Hona Black (Tuhoe, Te Whanau a Apanui, Te Whakatohea, Ngati Tuwharetoa) is Professor of te reo Maori at Te Kawa a Māui at Te Herenga Waka, University of Wellington. He is the author of He Iti te Kupu: Maori Metaphors and Similes, Te Reo Kapekape: Maori Wit and Humour and, with Te Aorangi Murphy-Fell, Nga Hapa Reo: Common Maori Language Errors. 

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