what does pakeha mean literally
PÄkehÄ is a MÄori language term for New Zealanders who are of European descent. Recently, the word has been used to refer inclusively either to fair-skinned persons or any non-MÄori New Zealander. Papa'a has a similar meaning in Cook Islands MÄori.Its etymology is unclear, but the term was in use by the late 18th century, and in December 1814, the MÄori children at Rangihoua in the Bay Of Islands were no less eager to see the packaha than the grown folks.apa'a has a similar meaning in Cook Islands MÄori. Its etymology is unclear, but the term was in use by the late 18th century, and in December 1814, the MÄori children at Rangihoua in the Bay Of Islands were no less eager to see the packaha than the grown folks.