Whanganui: The River City of New Zealand

• HelloKia ora
  [key-ah or-ah]
• GoodbyeHaere rā
  [high-ree rah]
• YesĀe
  [eye]
• NoKāore
  [ka-oh-reh]
• Please/You're welcomeWhakawhetai
  [fah-kah-fay-tie]
• Thank youKia ora
  [key-ah or-ah]
• Excuse me/SorryWhakama
  [fah-kah-mah]
• How are you?Kei te pēhea koe?
  [key tay pay-hay-ah co-eh]
• Fine. And you?Kei te pai. Ā, koe?
  [key tay pie. eye, co-eh?]
• Do you speak English?Kōrerotia te reo Pākehā e koe?
  [kore-eh-roh-tee-ah teh reh-oh pah-keh-ha eh co-eh?]
• I don't understandKāore au e āe
  [ka-oh-reh oh eh eye]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe tirohia te pānui, tēnā
  [meh tee-raw-he-ah teh pah-noo-ee, teh-nah]
• I don't eat meatKāore au e kai mīti
  [ka-oh-reh oh eh kai mee-tee]
• Cheers!Āraha!
  [eye-rah-ha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe utu au, tēnā
  [meh oo-too oh, teh-nah]

• Help!Āwhina!
  [eye-fee-nah]
• Go away!Haere atu!
  [high-ree ah-too]
• Call the Police!Karanga atu ki te Pirihimana!
  [kah-rah-ngah ah-too kee teh pee-ree-hee-mah-nah]
• Call a doctor!Karanga atu ki te doctor!
  [kah-rah-ngah ah-too kee teh dock-tor]
• I'm lostI wareware ahau
  [ee wah-reh-wah-reh ah-how]
• I'm illKa mate ahau
  [kah mah-teh ah-how]

• I'd like to buy...Me hoko au...
  [meh haw-kaw oh...]
• I'm just lookingKei te titiro ahau
  [key tay tee-tee-raw ah-how]
• How much is it?E hia te utu?
  [eh hee-ah teh oo-too?]
• That's too expensiveHe nui rawa te utu
  [heh noo-ee rah-wah teh oo-too]
• Can you lower the price?Ka taea e koe te whakaiti i te utu?
  [kah tea-ah eh co-eh teh fah-kai-tee ee teh oo-too?]

• What time is it?He aha te wā?
  [heh ah-hah teh wah?]
• It's one o'clockKotahi karaka
  [koh-tah-hee kah-rah-kah]
• Half past (10)Tekau me te rua tekau
  [teh-kow meh teh roo-ah teh-kow]
• MorningAtaahua
  [ah-tah-hoo-ah]
• AfternoonPō
  [paw]
• EveningAhiahi
  [ah-hee-ah-hee]
• YesterdayInāianei
  [ee-nah-yah-nay]
• TodayĀpōpō
  [eye-paw-paw]
• TomorrowĀpō
  [eye-paw]
• 1Tahi
  [tah-hee]
• 2Rua
  [roo-ah]
• 3Toru
  [toh-roo]
• 4Whā
  [fah]
• 5Rima
  [ree-mah]
• 6Ono
  [oh-no]
• 7Whitu
  [fee-too]
• 8Waru
  [wah-roo]
• 9Iwa
  [ee-wah]
• 10Tekau
  [teh-kow]

• Where's a/the...?Kei hea te...
  [key hay-ah teh...]
• What's the address?He aha te wāhitau?
  [heh ah-hah teh wah-hee-tow]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ka taea e koe te whakaatu mai i ahau (i te mahere)?
  [kah tea-ah eh co-eh teh fah-kah-ah-too my ee ah-how (ee teh mah-heh-reh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Āhea te wā (auta)?
  [eye-heh teh wah (ow-tah)]
• A ticket (to ....)He tiki (ki ...)
  [heh tee-kee (kee ...)]

Whanganui, one of New Zealand's oldest settlements, has been inhabited by Māori for hundreds of years. The Whanganui River, known to Māori as Te Awa Tupua, was a crucial resource for early Māori communities. It served as a primary means of transport, food source, and spiritual symbol. The river is deeply woven into the whakapapa (genealogy) and identity of local iwi (tribes) such as Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi.

European exploration of Whanganui began in the early 19th century. The first Europeans to arrive were missionaries and traders, followed by settlers. The town of Whanganui was founded in 1840, initially named Petre after Lord Petre, a director of the New Zealand Company. However, the name Whanganui, meaning 'big harbour' or 'big bay', became the official name after 1854 due to its widespread use and cultural significance.

The Whanganui River Wars were a series of conflicts between 1845 and 1864 involving Māori and British colonial forces. Tensions arose due to land disputes and the imposition of British laws on Māori communities. Significant battles occurred, including the Battle of Moutoa Island in 1864, where Māori loyal to the Crown fought against Māori insurgents. These conflicts had a lasting impact on the region and its people.

Whanganui thrived during the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to its strategic location on the river and burgeoning industries such as agriculture, milling, and shipping. The river facilitated the transport of goods and people, leading to the growth of the town as a commercial hub. Whanganui became known for its vibrant markets, bustling port, and an array of businesses ranging from wool processing to meatpacking.

In recent decades, Whanganui has experienced a cultural renaissance, marked by the revitalization of Māori traditions and the arts. The Whanganui River has been legally recognized as a living entity, granting it the same rights as a person, a landmark decision reflecting the deep connection between the river and the local iwi. The city is also home to a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, studios, and cultural festivals celebrating its rich heritage.

Whanganui boasts a wealth of architectural heritage, with many well-preserved buildings from the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Significant landmarks include the Durie Hill Elevator, built in 1919, which remains one of the few public transport elevators in the world. The Sarjeant Gallery, an iconic neoclassical building, and the Royal Wanganui Opera House, the last Victorian theatre still in use in New Zealand, are also notable examples of the city's historical architecture.

Whanganui is renowned for its educational institutions, most notably Whanganui Collegiate School, established in 1854. This prestigious secondary school has educated many prominent New Zealanders. The city is also home to the Whanganui Regional Museum and the Whanganui UCOL (Universal College of Learning), which contribute to the intellectual and cultural vibrancy of the region.

Whanganui is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Whanganui National Park. The park encompasses vast tracts of native forest and the upper reaches of the Whanganui River, offering numerous outdoor activities such as tramping, kayaking, and bird watching. The region's natural beauty and biodiversity make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.

Whanganui is located on the west coast of New Zealand's North Island. The nearest major airport is Wellington International Airport, approximately 200 kilometers south of Whanganui. From Wellington, you can take a domestic flight to Whanganui Airport, which is about a 10-minute drive from the city center. Alternatively, you can drive or take a bus from Wellington to Whanganui, which typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by road. Another option is to take a bus from Auckland, which takes approximately 7 hours.

Whanganui offers several transportation options. The city is compact and many attractions are within walking distance. Local buses operated by Horizons Regional Council connect different parts of the city and surrounding areas. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are available for convenient travel within the city. For those looking to explore beyond Whanganui, renting a car is a practical option. The town is well-connected by State Highway 3, making road trips to nearby destinations easy.

The official currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Whanganui, including at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the city. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets that may not accept cards. Most places accept contactless payments, making transactions quick and convenient.

Whanganui is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any place, it is important to take standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Whanganui does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 111 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or ambulance services. Whanganui Hospital is the main medical facility in the area, offering emergency medical care. Pharmacies are available in the city for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the locations of local police stations and medical facilities.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Smart casual attire is suitable for most occasions. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and give up your seat to those in need. Don't play loud music or speak loudly. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'kia ora', which is a traditional Māori greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and be open to new culinary experiences. Don't be afraid to ask locals for dining recommendations.

To experience Whanganui like a local, visit the River Traders Market held every Saturday along the Whanganui River. It's a great place to buy local produce, crafts, and enjoy street food. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Whanganui River Whanganui River Walkway, which offers beautiful views and a glimpse into the city's history. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share insights about the area. Don't miss out on visiting the Whanganui Regional Museum and the Durie Hill Elevator for a unique experience.