boowai

Mythical river in New Zealand, used for a location of something or someone whose location is unknown to the speaker, or where time is being wasted.

Mispronunciation of the Maori name of Puhwhai, a meandering and swampy river in Northland.

A."where's John?"
B."Up the boowai somewher, I guess."

Richard:"I'm back, dear!"
Judy:"From the boowai, I suppose, not doing anything useful!"