September 17, 2017
Maia tops baby name poll
Maia was the most popular Maori baby name for girls in 2016 both in Aotearoa and overseas, according to the Department of Internal Affairs.
Nikau topped the list of boys’ names in Aotearoa, but Kai was most popular for Maori boys born overseas.
It’s the first time Maori names for babies born overseas have been collected.
The second most popular girls’ name on both lists was Ariana, followed by Manaia at home and Hei away.
Manaia was the second most popular name for overseas babies and fourth on the list at home, where Ari took second spot.
Other popular names for girls included Anahera, Hana, Aroha, Amaia and Ataahua, while Kauri, Te Ariki, Tamati, Mikaere and Tane featured high on the boys’ list.
Copyright © 2017, UMA Broadcasting Ltd: www.waateanews.com