Kia Ora is a Maori language greeting from New Zealand . ( kee-ow-ra) literally translated it means "have life" or "be healthy", It is used as an informal greeting or farewell equivalent to "hi", "hello" or "goodbye" and can be used as an expression of thanks similar to "cheers". As a greeting it is comparable to the term "g'day"
In a formal setting it will be accompanied by a hongi, pressing forehead and noses together and exchanging ha or breath of life. This is a symbol of unity between the local tangata whenua and a visitor .
