Denigomodu: The Hidden Gem of Nauru

• HelloIaorana
  [yo-ra-na]
• GoodbyeKa kite
  [ka kee-te]
• YesAe
  [ai]
• NoKare
  [ka-re]
• Please/You're welcomeParau
  [pa-rau]
• Thank youMauruuru
  [mau-ru-ru]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [pa-don]
• How are you?E aha ta oe?
  [e a-ha ta o-e]
• Fine. And you?Maitai. E pehea koe?
  [mai-tai e pe-he-a ko-e]
• Do you speak English?E haere mai koe i te reo Ingarangi?
  [e ha-e-re mai ko-e i te re-o in-ga-ran-gi]
• I don't understandKare au e mohio
  [ka-re au e mo-hio]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseE hiahia au e kite i te mena, maruru
  [e hi-a-hia au e ki-te i te me-na ma-ru-ru]
• I don't eat meatKare au e kai i te kai
  [ka-re au e ka-i i te ka-i]
• Cheers!Manuia!
  [ma-nu-ia]
• I would like to pay, pleaseE hiahia au e utu, maruru
  [e hi-a-hia au e u-tu ma-ru-ru]

• Help!Awhina!
  [a-wi-na]
• Go away!Haere atu!
  [ha-e-re a-tu]
• Call the Police!Karanga ki te Pirihimana!
  [ka-ran-ga ki te pi-ri-hi-ma-na]
• Call a doctor!Karanga ki te Rata!
  [ka-ran-ga ki te ra-ta]
• I'm lostI te huarahi au
  [i te hua-ra-hi au]
• I'm illI te mate au
  [i te ma-te au]

• I'd like to buy...E hiahia au e hoko...
  [e hi-a-hia au e ho-ko]
• I'm just lookingKei te titiro noa au
  [kei te ti-ti-ro no-a au]
• How much is it?E hia moni?
  [e hi-a mo-ni]
• That's too expensiveHe nui rawa te utu
  [he nu-i ra-wa te u-tu]
• Can you lower the price?Ka taea e koe te whakaiti i te utu?
  [ka ta-ea e ko-e te fa-ka-i-ti i te u-tu]

• What time is it?He aha te wa?
  [he a-ha te wa]
• It's one o'clockKo te tahi karaka
  [ko te ta-hi ka-ra-ka]
• Half past (10)Tekau ma rua karaka
  [te-ka-u ma ru-a ka-ra-ka]
• MorningAhiahi
  [a-hi-a-hi]
• AfternoonApongite
  [a-po-ngi-te]
• EveningMatahiti
  [ma-ta-hi-ti]
• YesterdayIne
  [i-ne]
• TodayNei
  [ne-i]
• TomorrowApopo
  [a-po-po]
• 1Tahi
  [ta-hi]
• 2Rua
  [ru-a]
• 3Toru
  [to-ru]
• 4Wha
  [fa]
• 5Rima
  [ri-ma]
• 6Ono
  [o-no]
• 7Whitu
  [fi-tu]
• 8Waru
  [wa-ru]
• 9Iwa
  [i-wa]
• 10Tekau
  [te-ka-u]

• Where's a/the...?Kei hea te...?
  [kei he-a te]
• What's the address?He aha te wahi?
  [he a-ha te wa-hi]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ka taea e koe te whakaatu mai i ahau (i te mahere)?
  [ka ta-ea e ko-e te fa-ka-a-tu mai i a-ha-u i te ma-he-re]
• When's the next (bus)?Ahea te waa o te ruma nui?
  [a-he-a te wa-a o te ru-ma nu-i]
• A ticket (to ....)He tiketi (ki te ....)
  [he ti-ke-ti ki te]

Denigomodu, like the rest of Nauru, was originally settled by Micronesian and Polynesian peoples over 3,000 years ago. The indigenous Nauruans developed a unique culture and society based around fishing, agriculture, and crafting. Traditional practices such as canoe-building and weaving are deeply rooted in the history of Denigomodu.

In the late 19th century, Nauru, including Denigomodu, came under German control. The island was annexed by Germany in 1888 and became part of their colonial empire. During this period, the Nauruan society experienced significant changes due to the introduction of Western influences and Christianity by European missionaries.

The discovery of phosphate on Nauru in the early 20th century transformed Denigomodu significantly. Under German, and later Australian, British, and New Zealand administration, phosphate mining became the island’s main industry. Denigomodu played a crucial role as one of the areas where mining operations were centered, bringing economic growth but also environmental challenges.

During World War II, Nauru, including Denigomodu, was occupied by Japanese forces from 1942 to 1945. The occupation brought hardship to the local population, including forced labor and food shortages. After the war, the island was placed under Australian trusteeship by the United Nations.

Nauru gained independence in 1968, and Denigomodu, like other districts, began to navigate its path as part of the new nation. The area saw improvements in infrastructure and public services, supported by revenues from phosphate mining. However, the depletion of phosphate reserves has posed significant economic challenges.

Today, Denigomodu is a vibrant district that reflects both its rich history and the challenges of modernity. It houses a mix of residential areas, educational institutions, and remnants of its mining past. The community continues to celebrate its cultural heritage through traditional events and practices, while also adapting to contemporary influences.

Denigomodu is located in the western part of Nauru. The only way to reach Nauru is by air, typically via Nauru International Airport (INU) which is the only airport in the country. Flights are available from Brisbane, Australia, and a few other Pacific islands. From the airport, Denigomodu is just a short drive away, and taxis are readily available.

Nauru is a small island, and getting around Denigomodu is relatively straightforward. The most common forms of transportation are taxis and rental cars. Bicycles and motorbikes are also popular among locals and provide a convenient way to explore the area. Public transportation is limited, so renting a vehicle may provide the most flexibility.

The official currency of Nauru is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger stores, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. There are a few ATMs on the island, but it's a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash upon arrival.

Denigomodu is generally a safe area for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and always keep an eye on your belongings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always recommended.

In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police assistance or 111 for medical emergencies. The local hospital, Republic of Nauru Hospital, is equipped to handle most medical situations. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in residential areas and public spaces. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do be respectful of local customs and religious practices. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful to drivers and other passengers. Don't expect a strict schedule as services can be irregular. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile or a nod. Handshakes are also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and be willing to engage with locals over a meal. Don't waste food as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Denigomodu like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh fish, coconut products, and other local goods. Engage with the residents, who are generally friendly and hospitable. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Anibare Bay for swimming and snorkeling. For a cultural experience, attend local events and festivals which provide insights into Nauruan traditions and lifestyle.