New Zealand’s most popular Māori baby names for 2023/2024 have been announced in conjunction with Matariki, the Māori New Year.
The Department of Internal Affairs unveiled the list of Māori baby names today, timed to coincide with the Tangaroa lunar calendar period, which aligns with Matariki. This marks the second year in a row that the list has been released during the Māori New Year festivities.
Last year saw a shift in the approach used to compile the list of names.
“Our methodology involves a rigorous examination of each name’s origins and a comprehensive evaluation by our internal advisors and Te Atamira Taiwhenua, our kaumātua group,” said a spokesperson.
Once selected, the names undergo a final review by Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori — the Māori Language Commission.
The selected names represent the period from July 10, 2023, to June 30, 2024.
For the second consecutive year, the most popular Māori name for boys was Ariki / Te Ariki / Teariki. Likewise, Aroha or Te Aroha retained its position as the top choice for girls.
Here are the top 10 Māori names for boys:
1. Ariki/Te Ariki
2. Wiremu
3. Rāwiri
4. Mikaere
5. Nikau
6. Koa
7. Manaia
8. Manaaki
9. Kiwa
10. Kaitoa
And the top 10 Māori names for girls:
1. Aroha/Te Aroha
2. Amaia
3. Maia
4. Anahera
5. Moana
6. Manaia
7. Ataahua
8. Marama
9. Atarangi
10. Tui
