Illustration: MomJunction Design Team
Maori baby names eloquently express identity, linking children to their whakapapa (genealogy) and surrounding landscapes. These names create a tangible connection to ancestors, fostering cultural pride and a sense of belonging right from birth.
The Maori people of Aotearoa (New Zealand) possess a rich and ancient cultural heritage reflected in their traditional naming practices. As the Indigenous people of New Zealand, Maoris are an integral part of the nation. There are many compelling reasons to choose a Maori name for your child. These names hold profound meanings, deeply rooted in the indigenous community's natural world, ancestral history, and spiritual beliefs.
Māori first names hold deep cultural significance, connecting individuals to significant places, periods, deities, and cherished family members. They also symbolize qualities parents desire for their children. Exquisite options such as Ahika (of Heaven and Earth), Aio (love; thread), Hahana (radiance), and Marama (Moon) are worth considering.
At birth, first names are inspired by events or circumstances. Sometimes, children may receive a different name later, still influenced by events. Before Pakeha's arrival, Maori didn't have surnames, but now it's mandatory to use the father's name. Women aren't obliged to change their surnames after marriage.
Parents prefer meaningful names that reflect tradition, culture, or personal experience for their little ones. Choosing a Maori name is a perfect way to honor the rich heritage, pay tribute to the admired ancestors, and distinguish their children from the ones with the trendy names of today. Maori baby names are beloved for their beautiful sounds and evocative, interesting meanings, making them popular among Aboriginals and urban settlers.
Considering the uniqueness associated with Maori baby names, Momjunction has brought you a comprehensive list of names that you can choose from for your little bundle of joy. Rest assured, the names below have been weeb-researched upon and are extraordinary in their own way. Click on the links to get full details on the name.
| Name | Gender | Meaning | |
|---|---|---|---|
 Kaori |  |  Girl | Fragrant weaving |
| Katarine | | Girl | The one who is pure |
| Kauri | |  Boy | Tree found in New Zealand |
| Kiri | | Girl | Tree bark |
| Kiritopa | | Boy | Variant of Christopher; Bearer of Christ |
| Kiwi | |  Unisex | A flightless bird native to New Zealand; A type of fruit, also known as Chinese gooseberry |
| Kora | | Girl | Maiden |
| Koraka | | Boy | Koraka means A South Island Chief |
| Maaka | | Boy | Version of Mark; Consecrated to the God Mars |
| Mahaka | | Boy | A Ngati Kahungunu Chief |
| Mahuika | | Girl | Name of the Maori Goddess of fire |
| Maia | | Girl | Mother |
| Makareta | | Unisex | A form of Margareta; Pearl |
| Manaaki | | Boy | To cherish, conserve and sustain |
| Manaia | | Girl | From the mythological figure; a man with the head of a bird |
| Maori | | Unisex | Indigenous people of New Zealand |
| Marae | | Unisex | A communal or sacred place that serves as a venue for meetings and ceremonies in Polynesian societies |
| Marama | | Girl | She is like the moon |
| Marcellin | | Boy | A form of Marc; From Marcus; Refers to the Roman god of war |
| Marcellino | | Boy | From Marcus |
| Matiu | | Boy | God's gift |
| Mere | | Boy | Bitter |
| Mikaere | | Boy | Who is like God? |
| Ngaio | | Girl | The image or mirror image on the water places |
| Ngaire | | Girl | Silver-colored fern |
| Nikau | | Boy | Name of a palm tree found in New Zealand |
| Nikora | | Unisex | People |
| Nyree | | Girl | Most praised person; Most graceful |
| Pania | | Girl | A sea maiden in Maori mythology |
| Pounamu | | Girl | A treasured gift |
| Purta | | Boy | A person who is mythical |
| Puta | | Boy | A mythological person |
| Rangi | | Boy | Sky; God of the sky |
| Rapata | | Boy | Bright fame |
| Rawiri | | Boy | Beloved; One who is loved by everyone |
| Rongo | | Unisex | Peace, Peace-loving people |
| Ropata | | Boy | Bright fame; A variant of Rapata |
| Ruru | | Boy | Maori word for morepork; New Zealand’s native owl |
| Tanemahuta | | Boy | Man, or god of the forests |
| Tangaroa | | Boy | God of the sea; God of fire |
| Tawera | | Boy | A morning star |
| Tayn | | Boy | The God of light |
| Tia | | Unisex | Goddess of light; Aunt |
| Tino Aroha | | Girl | One who is loved and adored by all |
| Tipene | | Boy | Maori version of Stephen; Crown |
| Tui | | Unisex | A kind of bird that eats honey as food |
| Whina | | Girl | Helper; A helpful and kind girl |
| Wikitoria | | Girl | Victorious; A variation of Victoria |
| Wiremu | | Boy | A form of William; Helmet; Protection |
Maori baby names reflect the enduring spirit and deep connection of the Maori people to their land, ancestors, and values. Each name weaves a child into the fabric of their culture, carrying their people's stories, aspirations, and age-old wisdom. Implementing Maori naming traditions reveals the profound significance of heritage and remarkable identity in these children's lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are some traditional Maori baby names that are still commonly used today?
Aroha is a charming traditional name that means 'love.' Hemi, a variant of the Biblical Latin form Iacobus and Rangi, meaning 'sky' in Maori, are some other traditional names still common among Maori parents. Tama (son or boy), Hana (happiness), and Manaia (beauty or elegance) are some more names that connect people to their culture and traditions.
2. What are some gender-neutral Maori baby names?
Moana (ocean or deep sea), Manaia (beauty or elegance), and Whetū ('star') are unisex names, reflecting inclusivity and equality in Māori naming traditions.
3. What are some Maori baby names with religious or spiritual significance?
Marama is an elegant Maori name, which means 'moon' in Maori. It was the name of a moon goddess or god in Maori mythology. Mere is a Maori form of Mary, which comes from the Hebrew name Miryam, a name borne by the sister of Moses in the Old Testament.
4. How do Maori baby names relate to traditional Maori storytelling and mythology?
Maori baby names are often derived from mythological figures or gods and goddesses and represent the qualities, characteristics, or stories associated with them. For instance, Tane is the name of the god of forests and birds, whereas Tangaroa is the name of the 'god of the sea.' Similarly, Hinemoa represents the 'girl of the mist' or 'maiden of the waters,' and Maui refers to the legendary demigod. These names embody significant figures and narratives in Maori heritage.
5. What are some Maori baby names that are particularly popular among non-Maori families?
While Maori baby names are primarily used within the Maori community, some titles, such as Aroha, Moana, and Rangi, have gained popularity among non-Maori families in New Zealand. Some notable characters and personalities who possibly contributed to the popularity of these names among non-Maori people are Aroha Savage, a rugby union player from New Zealand. Moana Waialiki of Motunui is the famous character from Walt Disney's animated film Moana. Rangi Matamua is a Maori language scholar and academic known for revitalizing the Maori language.
