Maori phrase, meaning «Wait a bit.» Much used in some circles in New Zealand. The `Standard'gives it wrongly as «Anglo-Tasmanian,» probably becauseMr. Wade's book was published in Hobart.
1842. W. R. Wade, `Journey in New Zealand' (Hobart Town),p.66:
«`Taihoa.' This word has been translated, By and by;but in truth, it has all the latitude of directly, – – presently, – – by and by, – – a long time hence, – – and nobody knows when . . .the deliberate reply is, `Taihoa'. . . this patience-tryingword. . . .»
1881. J. L. Campbell, `Poenamo,' p. 87:
«That irritatingly provoking word, `taihoa.'»
[p. 88]: «The drawled-out t-a-i-h-o-a fell upon the ear.»
[p. 266] [Title of chapter]: «I learn what Taihoa means.»
[p.271]: «Great is the power of taihoa.»
[p. 276]: «The imperturbable taihoa, given to us with theordinary placid good-humour.»