Maori Last Names: A Collection of Traditional and Modern Surnames

Seeking a unique and meaningful last name that honors your Maori heritage? This curated list presents a diverse range of traditional and modern Maori last names, each with its own rich history and cultural significance. Whether you're looking for a name that reflects your ancestral roots or a modern option that resonates with your personal style, this collection offers something for everyone.
1. Ahipene: Meaning "brave warrior" or "strong man", this name evokes strength, courage, and leadership.
2. Aporo: Derived from "apo" meaning "to rise" or "to ascend", Aporo symbolizes progress, aspiration, and reaching new heights.
3. Atutahi: This name refers to a bright star in the Southern Hemisphere, representing guidance, clarity, and a connection to the celestial realm.
4. Haami: Meaning "to breathe" or "to live", Haami embodies vitality, life force, and a connection to the breath of life.
5. Heke: Derived from "heke" meaning "to descend" or "to flow", Heke symbolizes movement, change, and the passage of time.
6. Hemopo: Meaning "to dance" or "to play", Hemopo evokes joy, celebration, and a connection to the arts.
7. Hohepa: This name is a variation of "Joseph", often associated with wisdom, integrity, and loyalty.
8. Hori: Meaning "to be strong" or "to be brave", Hori represents strength, resilience, and courage.
9. Hotere: Derived from "hotere" meaning "to pierce" or "to penetrate", Hotere symbolizes insight, sharpness, and a keen intellect.
10. Ihaka: Meaning "Isaac", Ihaka is a name of Hebrew origin, often associated with faith, devotion, and obedience.
11. Karaitiana: A Maori version of "Christian", this name reflects faith, spirituality, and a connection to Christian values.
12. Kawana: Meaning "governor" or "leader", Kawana represents authority, responsibility, and a guiding presence.
13. Kemp: A common Maori last name, Kemp often signifies a connection to a specific place or lineage.
14. Koia: Meaning "to be true" or "to be real", Koia emphasizes authenticity, honesty, and genuineness.
15. Kuru: Derived from "kuru" meaning "to dance" or "to leap", Kuru represents joy, celebration, and a connection to the arts.
16. Mataira: Meaning "to see" or "to perceive", Mataira symbolizes insight, awareness, and a deep understanding of the world.
17. Moana: Meaning "ocean" or "sea", Moana evokes vastness, depth, and a connection to the natural world.
18. Ngarimu: This name is derived from a specific place in New Zealand, often associated with a sense of belonging and connection to the land.
19. Ngata: A common Maori last name, Ngata often signifies a connection to a specific place or lineage.
20. Ngawhika: Meaning "to be gifted" or "to be talented", Ngawhika embodies skill, creativity, and a natural aptitude.
21. Panapa: Meaning "to be strong" or "to be powerful", Panapa represents resilience, determination, and a commanding presence.
22. Pare: Meaning "to be beautiful" or "to be elegant", Pare embodies grace, beauty, and a refined sense of style.
23. Pere: This name is a variation of "Peter", often associated with leadership, courage, and faithfulness.
24. Pita: Meaning "Peter", Pita is a name of Greek origin, often associated with leadership, courage, and faithfulness.
25. Pou: Meaning "post" or "pillar", Pou represents strength, stability, and a foundation of support.
26. Rangi: Meaning "sky" or "heaven", Rangi evokes vastness, mystery, and a connection to the celestial realm.
27. Reihana: This name is a variation of "Regina", often associated with royalty, grace, and a strong presence.
28. Rere: Meaning "to fly" or "to soar", Rere symbolizes freedom, aspiration, and reaching for new heights.
29. Ropata: This name is a variation of "Robert", often associated with strength, determination, and leadership.
30. Ruru: Meaning "morepork" (a type of owl), Ruru evokes wisdom, insight, and a connection to the natural world.
31. Tamati: Meaning "Thomas", Tamati is a name of Aramaic origin, often associated with twin birth and a connection to the divine.
32. Tangata: Meaning "person" or "human being", Tangata represents humanity, individuality, and a connection to our shared existence.
33. Tane: Meaning "man" or "husband", Tane represents masculinity, strength, and a connection to the Earth.
34. Tau: Meaning "year" or "season", Tau embodies time, cycle, and a connection to the natural world.
35. Te Awe: Meaning "to be powerful" or "to be influential", Te Awe represents strength, dominance, and a commanding presence.
36. Te Kani: Meaning "to sing" or "to chant", Te Kani embodies creativity, expression, and a connection to the arts.
37. Te Rangi: Meaning "the sky" or "heaven", Te Rangi evokes vastness, mystery, and a connection to the celestial realm.
38. Te Reo: Meaning "the language", Te Reo embodies communication, connection, and a shared cultural identity.
39. Te Wehi: Meaning "to be afraid" or "to be scared", Te Wehi represents respect, reverence, and a connection to the unknown.
40. Tupaea: Meaning "to be humble" or "to be modest", Tupaea embodies humility, compassion, and a respect for others.