kia kaha

/ ˌkɪə ˈkɑːhə /

1. be strong!

Word History and Origins

Origin of kia kaha¹

Māori

Example Sentences

It is filled with messages of hope and condolence including the ubiquitous Te Reo affirmation “Kia kaha”, or stay strong.

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“Kia kaha” is written on a literal bundle of olive branches; in chalk on the pavement; on paper chains made by primary school students; across replicas of the New Zealand flag.

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Carrying placards with signs such as, “He wanted to divide us, he only made us stronger”, “Muslims welcome, racists not”, and “Kia Kaha” - Maori for ‘stay strong’, people walked mostly in silence or softly sang a Maori hymn of peace.

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"We send our thoughts and prayers to everyone in New Zealand today. Kia Kaha."

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They ended the message with the Maori words Kia Kaha, meaning "stay strong".

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