Maori Baby Names: Te Reo Treasures From Aotearoa

Maori names carry the spirit of Aotearoa (New Zealand) — its mountains, rivers, stars, and ancestors. As te reo Maori experiences a revival, these names are gaining appreciation worldwide. The Sound of Te Reo Maori has only 15 letters (10 consonants and 5 vowels), and every syllable ends in a vowel. This gives Maori names a flowing, musical quality that's instantly recognizable. Names for Girls Aroha — Means "love." Perhaps the most beautiful word in te reo Maori. Simple, profound, universal. Anika — Means "graceful." A name that sounds international but has deep Maori roots. Manaia — Means "beautiful" or "of good spirit." Also refers to a guardian spirit figure in Maori carving — a protector. Kaia — Means "sea" or "food from the sea." Connected to the ocean that defines island life. Maia — Means "brave" or "bold." Short and powerful. Names for Boys Tane — The Maori god of forests and birds, who separated earth and sky. Means "man" but carries divine significance. Nikau — A native New