Malaita Province: The Heartbeat of the Solomon Islands

• HelloKoali
  [ko-a-li]
• GoodbyeKokotu
  [ko-ko-tu]
• YesOo
  [oo]
• NoAa
  [aa]
• Please/You're welcomeFoloku
  [fo-lo-ku]
• Thank youFiriato
  [fi-ri-a-to]
• Excuse me/SorryUfau
  [u-fau]
• How are you?E i haurau?
  [e i ha-u-rau]
• Fine. And you?Haurau. E haurau ko?
  [hau-rau. e ha-u-rau ko]
• Do you speak English?E taukoi e Engaresi?
  [e tau-ko-i e en-ga-re-si]
• I don't understandE saharia au
  [e sa-ha-ri-a au]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseE haukoi e mami, fakatala
  [e hau-ko-i e ma-mi, fa-ka-ta-la]
• I don't eat meatE saharia au kaai
  [e sa-ha-ri-a au ka-ai]
• Cheers!Kotolahi!
  [ko-to-la-hi]
• I would like to pay, pleaseE haukoi e soli, fakatala
  [e hau-ko-i e so-li, fa-ka-ta-la]

• Help!Fakaau!
  [fa-ka-au]
• Go away!Lauki!
  [lau-ki]
• Call the Police!Fakaau e Polisi!
  [fa-ka-au e po-li-si]
• Call a doctor!Fakaau e doketa!
  [fa-ka-au e do-ke-ta]
• I'm lostE saharia au kae
  [e sa-ha-ri-a au ka-e]
• I'm illE saharia au hoau
  [e sa-ha-ri-a au ho-au]

• I'd like to buy...E haukoi e faa...
  [e hau-ko-i e fa-a]
• I'm just lookingE haukoi e tata
  [e hau-ko-i e ta-ta]
• How much is it?Ke haere e firi?
  [ke ha-e-re e fi-ri]
• That's too expensiveKe hano loa
  [ke ha-no lo-a]
• Can you lower the price?E taukoi e firi sahu?
  [e tau-ko-i e fi-ri sa-hu]

• What time is it?Ke haere e hae?
  [ke ha-e-re e ha-e]
• It's one o'clockE hae e tahi
  [e ha-e e ta-hi]
• Half past (10)Hae e hae (10)
  [ha-e e ha-e (10)]
• MorningMauri
  [mau-ri]
• AfternoonIeie
  [ie-ie]
• EveningMalamalama
  [ma-la-ma-la-ma]
• YesterdayHaeie
  [hae-ie]
• TodayHae
  [hae]
• TomorrowHaeata
  [hae-a-ta]
• 1Tahi
  [ta-hi]
• 2Rua
  [ru-a]
• 3Toru
  [to-ru]
• 4Fa
  [fa]
• 5Rima
  [ri-ma]
• 6Ono
  [o-no]
• 7Fitu
  [fi-tu]
• 8Valu
  [va-lu]
• 9Hiva
  [hi-va]
• 10Sepulu
  [se-pu-lu]

• Where's a/the...?Ke hae e...?
  [ke ha-e e]
• What's the address?Ke hae e fuka hae?
  [ke ha-e e fu-ka ha-e]
• Can you show me (on the map)?E taukoi e fakaau mai (i te maapa)?
  [e tau-ko-i e fa-ka-au ma-i (i te ma-a-pa)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ke hae e hae ingaau (pasi)?
  [ke ha-e e ha-e in-ga-au (pa-si)]
• A ticket (to ....)E haukoi e tikit (ki ...)
  [e hau-ko-i e ti-kit (ki)]

Before European contact, Malaita Province was home to a rich and diverse Melanesian culture. The island's traditional society was organized around extended family groups, with social structures deeply rooted in clan and tribal affiliations. The people of Malaita were skilled in agriculture, fishing, and navigation, with intricate knowledge of their natural environment. They also practiced elaborate customs and rituals, many of which are still observed today.

The first European to sight Malaita was Spanish navigator Álvaro de Mendaña in 1568. However, significant European interaction began in the late 19th century when British and German traders arrived. The island became part of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate in 1893. During the colonial period, Malaitans were heavily recruited as laborers for plantations in other parts of the Solomon Islands and Australia. This period also saw the introduction of Christianity, which has since become a major influence on the island's culture.

The Maasina Ruru movement, also known as the Marching Rule, was an indigenous social and political movement that emerged in Malaita in the 1940s. It was a response to colonial rule and aimed to improve the social and economic conditions of the islanders. The movement called for greater autonomy and self-governance. Though it was suppressed by the British authorities, it laid the groundwork for future nationalist movements and the eventual independence of Solomon Islands in 1978.

World War II had a significant impact on Malaita Province. The island served as a strategic location for both Allied and Japanese forces. While it was not a major battleground, the presence of foreign troops brought about social and economic changes. Malaitans were employed as laborers and scouts, and the war effort led to infrastructure developments, including airstrips and roads. The post-war period saw increased political awareness and a push for independence.

Following Solomon Islands' independence in 1978, Malaita has undergone various social and economic changes. The province has faced challenges such as limited infrastructure, but it remains a vital part of the nation's economy and culture. Malaita is known for its strong adherence to traditional customs and its significant contributions to the national labor force. Modern Malaita continues to balance traditional values with the pressures of modernization.

Malaita is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals. The island's traditional music, dance, and art are celebrated through various events and ceremonies. The 'Are'are people, in particular, are famous for their panpipe music, which has gained international recognition. Festivals such as the Kwaio Festival showcase the island's unique customs, including traditional dances, feasts, and rituals. These cultural expressions are a testament to Malaita's enduring heritage.

Malaita Province is accessible primarily through the Solomon Islands' capital, Honiara, located on Guadalcanal Island. The Honiara International Airport (HIR) offers flights from multiple international destinations. From Honiara, you can take a domestic flight to Auki Airport (AKS) on Malaita. Alternatively, there are ferry services from Honiara to various ports in Malaita, including Auki and Malu'u. The ferry journey can take several hours but offers a scenic view of the islands.

Within Malaita Province, transportation options include minibuses, taxis, and motorized canoes for shorter trips between villages. Minibuses are the most common form of public transport and are relatively inexpensive. Taxis are available in larger towns like Auki. For exploring remote areas or neighboring islands, hiring a motorized canoe is often necessary. Car rentals are available but less common, and the road conditions can be challenging.

The official currency of the Solomon Islands is the Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Auki, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before traveling to more remote areas. Traveler's cheques are not widely accepted.

Malaita Province is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always best practice. Be cautious when traveling to very remote areas and seek local advice.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. Medical facilities are available in Auki and other major towns. It is strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in larger towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Always carry a basic first aid kit when traveling to remote areas.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in villages. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a nod. A handshake is common in more formal situations. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Malaita Province like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Solomon Island crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss the traditional 'Auki' dances and music performances. For a unique experience, participate in a fishing expedition with local fishermen or explore the pristine coral reefs through snorkeling or diving.