146 Maori Baby Names With Meanings

Kiwis prefer names that have a special meaning and connection, either by tradition, culture, or an experience. So what better than giving your children a Maori name? Being the Indigenous people of New Zealand, Maoris form an integral part of the nation. And if you ask us, there are plenty of other good reasons to give your child a Maori name. It will recognize your Maori heritage, honor your admired ancestor, and stand out from the crowd of today’s trendy names.

Maori baby names have beautiful sounds and evocative and interesting meanings, which is why there are incredibly popular, not just with the Aboriginals, but also urban settlers. The first names are often given at birth, inspired by the event or circumstances. In some cases, children can be given a different name, this time again, influenced by events or circumstances. Before the arrival of Pakeha, Maori did not use surnames. But it’s now mandatory for Maoris to have a family name, which should be the father’s name. And it isn’t required for women to change their surnames after marriage.

Below is MomJunction’s wide selection of Maori names with meanings. Click on the links to get full details on the name.