Auki: The Serene Gateway to Malaita

• HelloAlu
  [ah-loo]
• GoodbyeTata
  [tah-tah]
• YesIo
  [ee-oh]
• NoTia
  [tee-ah]
• Please/You're welcomeTangio/Manaoa
  [tang-yoh/ma-nah-oh-ah]
• Thank youTangio tumas
  [tang-yoh too-mahs]
• Excuse me/SorryTangio
  [tang-yoh]
• How are you?Ol kolim yu?
  [ohl koh-leem yoo]
• Fine. And you?Good talem. Na yu?
  [good tah-lehm. nah yoo]
• Do you speak English?Yu save toktok long Inglis?
  [yoo sah-veh tohk-tohk long een-glees]
• I don't understandMi no save
  [mee noh sah-veh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laekem lukim menu, plis
  [mee lie-kem loo-keem meh-noo, plees]
• I don't eat meatMi no save kaikai mit
  [mee noh sah-veh kai-kai meet]
• Cheers!Gudfala!
  [good-fah-lah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi laekem pei, plis
  [mee lie-kem pay, plees]

• Help!Helpem!
  [help-em]
• Go away!Go lusim!
  [goh loo-seem]
• Call the Police!Kolem Polis!
  [koh-lem poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Kolem dokta!
  [koh-lem dohk-tah]
• I'm lostMi lusim
  [mee loo-seem]
• I'm illMi sik
  [mee seek]

• I'd like to buy...Mi laekem baem...
  [mee lie-kem bah-em...]
• I'm just lookingMi jes lukim
  [mee jehs loo-keem]
• How much is it?Hao moa?
  [hah-oh moh-ah]
• That's too expensiveIu moa fo plenti
  [yoo moh-ah foh plehn-tee]
• Can you lower the price?Iu karem daon prais?
  [yoo kah-rehm dahn prah-ees]

• What time is it?Hao taem nao?
  [hah-oh tah-em now]
• It's one o'clockIuwan taem
  [yoo-wahn tah-em]
• Half past (10)Hap pasten (10)
  [hah-pah-stehn (10)]
• MorningMoning
  [moh-ning]
• AfternoonApinun
  [ah-pee-noon]
• EveningIvinin
  [ee-vee-neen]
• YesterdayDei las
  [deh lahss]
• TodayDei
  [deh]
• TomorrowTomoro
  [toh-moh-roh]
• 1Wan
  [wahn]
• 2Tu
  [too]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Foa
  [foh-ah]
• 5Faiv
  [fah-eev]
• 6Sikis
  [see-kees]
• 7Seven
  [seh-vehn]
• 8Eit
  [ayt]
• 9Nain
  [nayn]
• 10Ten
  [tehn]

• Where's a/the...?Hao finis...?
  [hah-oh fee-nees...?]
• What's the address?Wanem address?
  [wah-nehm address?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Iu save soemim mi (long map)?
  [yoo sah-veh soh-ehm-im mee (long map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Hao taim bus i kam?
  [hah-oh tah-eem boos ee kahm?]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wahn tee-keht (long ....)]

Auki is the provincial capital of Malaita Province in the Solomon Islands. The town's history dates back to the early settlers of the Malaita island, primarily the Melanesian people, who established villages and communities along the coastline. These early communities relied heavily on fishing, gardening, and the rich natural resources of the region to sustain their way of life.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Solomon Islands, including Auki, came under British colonial rule. During this period, the British introduced new governance structures, education systems, and infrastructure development. Auki gradually developed into a key administrative center for the British authorities in Malaita Province. The influence of British colonialism is still evident in the town's architecture and some cultural practices.

During World War II, the Solomon Islands became a significant battleground in the Pacific Theatre. While the Battle of Guadalcanal was the most famous conflict in the region, Auki and Malaita were strategic locations for both the Japanese and Allied forces. The town served as a support base, and the local population contributed to the war effort. The war left a lasting impact on the community, with remnants of military installations and war relics still visible in the area.

Following the Solomon Islands' independence from British rule in 1978, Auki experienced significant changes. The town became more self-reliant, focusing on developing local governance, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Malaita Provincial Government established its headquarters in Auki, further solidifying its role as the administrative heart of the province. Efforts were made to preserve and promote traditional Malaitan culture while embracing modernization.

Auki is a vibrant hub of Malaitan culture and traditions. The town is known for its festivals, traditional dances, and crafts. The Auki Cultural Centre serves as a focal point for preserving and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Malaitan people. Traditional practices such as shell money production, wood carving, and weaving are integral parts of the local economy and cultural identity. The town also hosts significant events like the Malaita Cultural Festival, attracting visitors from across the Solomon Islands and beyond.

In recent years, Auki has become an emerging destination for eco-tourism and cultural tourism. The town's proximity to beautiful natural attractions such as the Langa Langa Lagoon and the Kwaibala River makes it a popular spot for visitors seeking adventure and cultural immersion. The local economy has seen growth due to tourism, with new accommodations, restaurants, and tour services catering to both domestic and international travelers. Auki's blend of historical significance and cultural richness offers a unique experience for those exploring the Solomon Islands.

Auki is located on the island of Malaita in the Solomon Islands. The nearest international airport is Honiara International Airport on Guadalcanal Island. From Honiara, you can take a domestic flight to Auki, with Solomon Airlines offering regular services. Alternatively, you can take a ferry or a speedboat from Honiara to Auki, which can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day depending on the service.

Auki is a small town, and most places within the town are accessible by foot. For longer distances or for exploring the island, local taxis and minibuses are available. It is also possible to hire a car, although road conditions can be challenging. Bicycles can be rented for a more eco-friendly way to explore the area. Keep in mind that public transport schedules might not always be reliable, so plan your trips accordingly.

The official currency in the Solomon Islands is the Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it is advisable to carry cash, particularly for smaller establishments. ATMs are available in Auki, but it is recommended to bring enough cash from Honiara before arriving to ensure you have adequate funds for your stay.

Auki is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious of your belongings in crowded 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 emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Auki has a local police station and medical facilities, including a hospital. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Make sure to have the contact information of your embassy or consulate in case you need further assistance.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local villages or attending church services. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always seek permission before entering churches and participate respectfully in any religious activities. Public Transport: Do be patient with the public transport schedules and be respectful to the drivers and other passengers. Don't expect strict adherence to time schedules. Greetings: Do greet people warmly, a handshake is common, and a smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite. Always wait for an invitation before starting to eat.

To experience Auki like a local, visit the bustling Auki Market where you can buy fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. Engage with the locals, who are often very friendly and keen to share their culture. Take time to explore the surrounding natural beauty, including the nearby Langa Langa Lagoon and its artificial islands, which are unique to Malaita. For an authentic experience, consider staying in a local guesthouse and participating in traditional activities such as fishing and shell money making.