kia ora

/ ˌkɪə ˈɔːrə /

sentence substitute

1. greetings! good luck!

Word History and Origins

Origin of kia ora¹

Māori, literally: be well!

Example Sentences

The greeting Kia Ora is a common greeting at restaurants and shops.

From Washington Times

The greeting Kia Ora is a common greeting at restaurants and shops.

From Seattle Times

Signs were distributed to those waiting in the Arrivals Lounge declaring "Hello & Kia Ora & G'day & Welcome."

From Reuters

Kia ora and welcome to our live coverage of the New Zealand election.

From The Guardian

“Kia ora, Jacinda; thank you Aunty; hey there my sister!” students yell, as the windows of surrounding buildings open and staff and students lean out as far as they can to watch the hullabaloo.

From The Guardian