Maori Baby Names and Meanings:
Girls:
* Anahera: Angel, messenger of God
* Aroha: Love, affection
* Hine: Woman, maiden
* Hinewai: Beautiful woman
* Hinemoa: Woman of the lake
* Ihi: Power, energy
* Kaiora: Living, alive
* Manaia: Guardian spirit, supernatural being
* Marama: Moon, light
* Mātai: Ocean tide, sea
* Moana: Ocean, sea
* Ngaire: The flowering of the cabbage tree
* Rangi: Sky, heaven
* Te Aroha: The love
* Tiare: Flower
Boys:
* Aotearoa: The land of the long white cloud (New Zealand)
* Ariki: Chief, leader
* Haere: To go, to travel
* Heke: To descend, to come down
* Hiko: Lightning
* Horomatau: Strong, courageous
* Kahurangi: Precious, sacred
* Kahu: Cloak, protector
* Kereme: The wind
* Manu: Bird
* Mata: Eye, sight
* Rongo: Peace, harmony
* Tama: Child, son
* Te Rangi: The sky
* Tū: To stand, to be strong
Unisex:
* Atawhai: Kindness, compassion
* Hau: Wind, breath
* Hinepukohu: A legendary maiden
* Kai: Food
* Mana: Power, prestige
* Pakeha: European, foreigner
* Ruru: Morepork (native owl)
* Tamaiti: Child
* Tane: The god of the forest
* Tiki: Carved human figure, symbol of protection
Tips for Choosing:
* Consider the meaning: Choose a name that resonates with your values and beliefs.
* Think about the pronunciation: Maori names can have unique sounds and spellings.
* Choose a name that feels right: Ultimately, the best name is one that you and your partner love.
Note: Maori names are often used in combination with other names. For example, a girl named Hine could also be named Hinewai, Hinemoa, or Hinepukohu.
You can find more Maori baby names and their meanings online or in books about Maori culture.
Remember to approach the selection of a Maori name with respect and cultural sensitivity.