God defend new zealand maori version translate word by word?

It's great you're interested in learning about Māori and its connection to the phrase "God defend New Zealand". However, there isn't a direct, literal Māori translation of that phrase. Here's why and what we can do instead:

Why No Direct Translation:

* "God" in Māori: There's no singular word for "God" in Māori. Traditional Māori beliefs are based on a complex system of deities, spirits, and ancestors.

* "Defend" in Māori: While there are words for "protect" or "guard," "defend" is a concept tied to modern warfare and national identity, not directly present in traditional Māori thought.

* "New Zealand": "Aotearoa" is the Māori name for New Zealand, but it doesn't carry the same legal/nationalistic weight as "New Zealand" does in English.

Alternative Approaches:

1. Focusing on Protection: You could use phrases like:

* "Tiaki te Aotearoa" (Protect New Zealand/Aotearoa)

* "Manaaki te whenua" (Care for the land)

* "Whakaora te iwi" (Save/Heal the people)

* "Kia ora te iwi" (Long life/well-being to the people)

2. Using a Māori Proverb:

* "He waka eke noa" (We are all in the same canoe) - Represents unity and shared responsibility.

* "E kore e ngaro te ngakau" (The spirit will not be extinguished) - Expresses resilience and hope.

3. Creating a New Phrase:

* This would require working with fluent Māori speakers to craft something that accurately reflects the spirit of the English phrase while respecting Māori cultural values.

Important Considerations:

* Context: The purpose and context of the phrase matter. Is it for a national anthem, a military motto, or a personal statement?

* Cultural Sensitivity: Always be respectful of Māori language and culture.

Remember, language is a living thing, and the way we express concepts changes over time.