Buada: The Heart of Nauru's Hidden Paradise

• HelloIaorana
  [YOW-rah-nah]
• GoodbyeKaore
  [KOW-reh]
• YesE
  [EH]
• NoAere
  [AH-reh]
• Please/You're welcomeKia orana
  [KEE-ah oh-rah-nah]
• Thank youMauruuru
  [Mah-roo-roo]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [Pahr-dohn]
• How are you?Aita pe?a koe?
  [EYE-tah PEH-ah koh-eh?]
• Fine. And you?Maitai. E koe?
  [MAI-tai. EH koh-eh?]
• Do you speak English?K?re koe e k?rer? i te reo?
  [KOH-reh koh-eh eh koh-reh-ROH ee teh REH-oh?]
• I don't understandKaore au e aroha atu
  [KOW-reh oh AH-roh-hah AH-too]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseE manako au e kite i te mena, ?n?ri
  [EH mah-NAH-koh oh eh KEE-teh ee teh MEH-nah, AH-nee-ree]
• I don't eat meatKaore au e kai k?ua
  [KOW-reh oh eh KAI KOO-ah]
• Cheers!Tia maitai!
  [TEE-ah MAI-tai]
• I would like to pay, pleaseE manako au e utu, ?n?ri
  [EH mah-NAH-koh oh eh OO-too, AH-nee-ree]

• Help!Awhina!
  [AH-fee-nah]
• Go away!Haere atu!
  [HIGH-reh AH-too]
• Call the Police!Karanga ki te P?rihi!
  [Kah-RAH-ngah kee teh PEH-ree-hee]
• Call a doctor!Karanga ki te rata!
  [Kah-RAH-ngah kee teh RAH-tah]
• I'm lostAu i te ngaro
  [AH-oo ee teh NGAH-roh]
• I'm illAu e mate
  [AH-oo eh MAH-teh]

• I'd like to buy...E manako au e hoko...
  [EH mah-NAH-koh oh eh HOH-koh]
• I'm just lookingE aroha atu au e titiro ?n?ri
  [EH ah-roh-hah AH-too oh eh tee-TEE-roh AH-nee-ree]
• How much is it?E hia ta?ra?
  [EH HEE-ah TAH-rah]
• That's too expensiveTino peni
  [TEE-noh PEH-nee]
• Can you lower the price?K?re koe e raro i te ta?ra?
  [KOH-reh koh-eh eh RAH-roh ee teh TAH-rah]

• What time is it?He aha te w?hanga?
  [HEH AH-hah teh WOH-hahng-ah]
• It's one o'clockKotahi karaka
  [KOH-tah-hee kah-RAH-kah]
• Half past (10)Tekau me te toru
  [TEH-kow meh teh TOH-roo]
• MorningAt?rua
  [AH-too-roo-ah]
• AfternoonApop?ra
  [AH-poh-POH-rah]
• EveningAhiahi
  [AH-hee-AH-hee]
• Yesterday?nei
  [AH-neh-ee]
• TodayInei
  [EE-neh-ee]
• TomorrowAp?po
  [AH-poh-poh]
• 1Tahi
  [TAH-hee]
• 2Rua
  [ROO-ah]
• 3Toru
  [TOH-roo]
• 4Wh?
  [FAH]
• 5Rima
  [REE-mah]
• 6Ono
  [OH-noh]
• 7Whitu
  [FEE-too]
• 8Waru
  [WAH-roo]
• 9Iwa
  [EE-wah]
• 10Tekau
  [TEH-kow]

• Where's a/the...?Kei hea te...?
  [KAY HAY-ah teh]
• What's the address?He aha te w?hitu?
  [HEH AH-hah teh WOH-hee-too]
• Can you show me (on the map)?K?re koe e whakaatu mai ki ahau (i te mahere)?
  [KOH-reh koh-eh eh fah-KAH-too my kee AH-how (ee teh mah-HEH-reh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ahea te p? heke?
  [AH-heh-ah teh poh HEH-keh]
• A ticket (to ....)He tiki (ki ....)
  [HEH TEE-kee (kee)]

The history of Buada, like the rest of Nauru, begins with its earliest settlers, the Polynesians. These early inhabitants are believed to have settled on the island over 3,000 years ago. They brought with them advanced fishing techniques and profound navigational skills, forming the foundation of the island's culture.

Buada, like other districts in Nauru, was traditionally organized into matrilineal clans. Each clan had its own customs, traditions, and leadership structures, which were integral to maintaining social order and cultural heritage. The elders played a significant role in decision-making and preserving oral histories.

In the late 19th century, Nauru, including Buada, came under colonial rule. Initially annexed by Germany in 1888, the island later fell under Australian administration after World War I. The colonial period brought significant changes, including the introduction of Christianity and the exploitation of phosphate resources.

The discovery of phosphate in the early 20th century marked a turning point for Buada and the rest of Nauru. The island's phosphate deposits, rich in quality, were heavily mined by colonial powers, leading to economic transformations but also environmental degradation. The local community faced displacement and disruption due to mining activities.

During World War II, Nauru was occupied by Japanese forces. Buada, like other parts of the island, experienced hardship and deprivation. The local population faced forced labor and food shortages, and many were relocated to other islands. The war left lasting scars on the community.

Nauru gained independence in 1968, and Buada, as part of the newly sovereign nation, embarked on a journey of self-determination. The post-independence era saw efforts to rebuild the local economy and infrastructure, with a focus on addressing the environmental impacts of phosphate mining and rediscovering cultural heritage.

At the heart of Buada District lies Buada Lagoon, a freshwater lagoon that has been central to the community for generations. The lagoon is not only a vital water source but also a cultural and spiritual symbol. It has been the site of traditional practices and gatherings, reflecting the deep connection between the people and their natural environment.

Today, Buada is a vibrant community that blends traditional practices with modern influences. The district is known for its lush vegetation and agricultural activities, particularly the cultivation of fruits and vegetables. Community events, local crafts, and a commitment to preserving cultural heritage continue to define life in Buada.

Nauru is a small island nation in the Pacific Ocean, and the only airport is Nauru International Airport (INU). There are limited international flights, primarily connecting Nauru with Brisbane, Australia, and some other Pacific islands. Upon arrival at Nauru International Airport, Buada District is just a short drive away. Taxis and car rentals are available at the airport for your convenience.

Transportation in Buada is relatively straightforward due to the small size of Nauru. Most places within Buada are accessible by walking or cycling. Taxis are available and are a common mode of transport. Car rentals can also be arranged if you prefer more independence. There is no public bus service in Nauru, so plan accordingly.

The official currency of Nauru is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it is advisable to carry cash for most transactions. There are limited ATMs on the island, so ensure you withdraw enough cash before traveling to Buada. Larger hotels and some stores may accept credit cards, but this is not guaranteed.

Buada is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and keep an eye on your belongings in public areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police assistance, 111 for fire emergencies, and 112 for medical emergencies. Buada has a local police station and medical facilities. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local communities. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Public Transport: There is no formal public transport system; taxis and walking are common. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly nod or handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Buada like a local, visit the Buada Lagoon, where you can enjoy the serene environment and interact with locals. Engage with residents, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their community. Don't miss trying local food specialties, such as fresh seafood and traditional Nauruan dishes. For a unique experience, participate in community events or festivals if your visit coincides with any.