Norfolk Islanders speak Norf’k, a mix of Tahitian and 18th century English. It has been recognised for its distinctiveness by the United Nations. It will feature in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s (UNESCO) next edition of its Atlas of the World’s Languages in Danger of Disappearing. As of 2005, Norfolk Island Government declared Norf’k an official language as well as English, and is now taught at school. The language originated from the Bounty mutineers who hid on remote Pitcairn Island with their Tahitian wives. Their descendants later brought the language to Norfolk. Among the most used words are “watawieh yourley” (hello, how are you?) and “kushu” (good thank-you).

Speaking Norf’k - some words and phrases:

watawieh = hello
kushu = I’m fine
naawi = swimming
tiicha = teacher
Wan kau f’ mais bradhas s’ orf aut = My brother’s cow has got out
Hi es kain a’ huihuiwan = He’s somewhat dirty
Kat krors aa paedak aafta tii en wi gu sing = Cut across the paddock after tea and come for a singsong

Source: Speak Norfolk Today, by Alice Buffett, 1999