what does ranoa mean in maori/new zealand?

Answer 1

Maori words can have a number of different meanings depending on the context in which they are used and/or the way they are combined with other words. 'Ra' can variously mean 'by way of, passed, over there, day' - the list goes on, but you get my point I hope. 'Noa' usually means 'free of restriction or tapu', although when linked with other words can convey a variety of meanings. I could guess and say that 'ranoa' is conveying the sense of unrestricted freedom but it would be better to see how it has been used in the example you have come across. If you have seen it used in a certain sentence/phrase and can provide the whole context then perhaps a more knowledge based meaning can be given.