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.

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.

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.

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.

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 Disneys animated film Moana. Rangi Matamua is a Maori language scholar and academic known for revitalizing the Maori language.

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7 Maori Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With P

Written by Shikha Thakur, MBA Specialty: Relationships and Baby NamesExperience: 7 years

Shikha is a writer-turned-editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood.

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Edited by Siddharth Kesiraju, MA, Certification in Relationship Coaching Specialty: Love, Marriage and RelationshipsExperience: 7 years

Siddharth holds a certification in Relationship Coaching and a masters degree in communication and journalism from the University of Hyderabad. He has around seven years of experience in various fields of writing and editing.

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Fact-checked by Praggya Joshi, MA, BEd Specialty: Child education & activitiesExperience: 2 years

Praggya Joshi holds a bachelor's degree in Education and a master's in Ancient Indian History from University of Delhi. She has a robust knowledge of literature, society, and ethics. Praggya has been a content writer since 2021, researching and writing on education, health and wellness, and travel.

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Last Updated on Oct 3, 2023

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Name	Gender	Meaning
Papa	Boy	Father; Uncle; Earth; Daughter of; Wife of
Piki	Boy	Fast; Ascend; Peach
Paki	Boy	Fine weather
Purta	Boy	A person who is mythical
Puta	Boy	A mythological person
Pania	Girl	Water; Devoted to God
Pounamu	Girl	A treasured gift