A move has been made by the New Zealand Geographic Board (NZGB) to make 824 Māori place names official.
As part of an effort to "keep stories alive", the correct spelling of popular New Zealand destinations such as Taupō, Whakatāne, Whangārei, and Lake Wānaka have been ensured.
- Misspelled Māori Wellington place and street names may be fixed
- Lack of macrons on signs for Māori place names
- Pākehā complaining about Māori place names just 'unwilling to try'
The (NZGB), which is the country's place naming authority, says it's an important move for all New Zealanders.
Acting chairperson Anselm Haanen said applying macrons provided the meaning of the names, and assisted with pronunciation.
"Many Māori place names have important stories behind them, so ensuring the correct spellings will help keep those stories alive."
The full list of official Māori place names can be found here.
Newshub.
