Māori quotes to remember on your next trip
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The Māori language, Te Reo Māori, offers a deeply poetic and spiritual way of understanding the world. Many traditional Māori sayings (known as whakataukī) have been passed down for generations, capturing values of connection, humility, nature, and spirit. These Maori quotes are more than words. They are sacred threads that weave together people, place, and purpose.
In this article, we’ve selected a collection of Māori proverbs that speak to the heart of spiritual and mindful travel. Whether you're wandering through Aotearoa or navigating a personal journey, may these words be your companions. Quiet, strong, and wise.
Maori quotes rooted in wisdom and spirit
“Even the small grub can fell the great kahikatea tree.”
He iti te mokoroa nāna i kati te kahikatea.
This proverb speaks to the quiet power within small things. It reminds us that even the seemingly insignificant can create great change. Beyond its literal meaning, it also reflects the interconnectedness of all life. Just as the mokoroa is part of the forest’s delicate balance, we too are part of a larger web, what some might call the collective consciousness. Our thoughts, actions, and presence ripple through this shared field, proving that transformation often begins in the unseen.
“The land remains while people disappear.”
Toitū te whenua, whatungarongaro te tangata.
A grounding reminder that nature endures beyond us. When you walk through the wild landscapes of New Zealand, remember: you are stepping through the sacred, fleeting as you are.
“Pursue that which is precious, and do not be deterred by anything less than a lofty mountain.“
Whaia te iti kahurangi, ki te tuohu koe, me he maunga teitei.
This quote encourages you to follow your highest calling, even when the path gets steep. Let your goals be noble. Let your surrender be only to greatness.
“Seek out the distant horizons, and cherish those you attain.“
Ko te pae tawhiti whāia kia tata, ko te pae tata whakamaua kia tina.
A favourite for travellers and dreamers alike. It honours both ambition and presence, reminding us to reach forward while celebrating what we already hold.
“As the old net withers, a new one is made.“
Ka pū te ruha, ka hao te rangatahi.
This whakataukī speaks of renewal: when one generation or phase ends, another rises. It’s a beautiful reflection for those healing, evolving, or entering new chapters.
“The bird that eats the miro berry owns the forest. The bird that feeds on knowledge owns the world.“
Ko te manu e kai ana i te miro, nōna te ngahere. Ko te manu e kai ana i te mātauranga, nōna te ao.
A gem of poetic wisdom. This quote celebrates learning and insight as the truest forms of power.
“May peace be widespread, may the sea be like greenstone.“
Kia hora te marino, kia whakapapa pounamu te moana.
Used in ceremonies and formal blessings, this phrase paints a picture of serenity. It evokes the image of the sea being as smooth, clear, and still as polished greenstone.
But it’s more than aesthetic: Greenstone (pounamu) is also a treasure in Māori culture, often passed down through generations. So the metaphor goes deeper: it’s a wish for the emotional and spiritual landscape (like the sea within us) to be calm, strong, and sacred.
“With your contribution and mine, the people will thrive.“
Nā tō rourou, nā taku rourou, ka ora ai te iwi.
A proverb of shared abundance. It reminds us that community thrives when we each bring what we can. A beautiful grounding for mindful travellers.
Let these words walk with you
As we journey through land and life, words like these can serve as anchors. These are quiet reminders of who we are, and what truly matters. But let us also walk with care: Māori proverbs are not just poetic captions; they are sacred teachings and cultural taonga (treasures). When a whakataukī moves you, take a moment to learn about the values behind it: manaakitanga (care), kaitiakitanga (guardianship), whanaungatanga (kinship).
May these Māori quotes guide your path, whether through forest trails, quiet meditations, or meaningful crossroads.
And if your heart is curious to know more, we invite you to read our article: Curious facts about Māori spirituality. It's a gentle window into the worldview that breathes life into these sacred sayings.
About the author: Thaíz Lara is the creator behind New Hermits, a New Zealand-based storyteller who believes in the power of story and soul-filled travel. After living in 5 countries and exploring 60, she has come to understand that the most meaningful journeys often begin within. Learn more about Lara.
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