Kiwis' most popular baby names for 2025 have been revealed. Photo / 123RF

The most popular baby names for 2025 revealed

Author: NZ Herald,
Publish Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026, 2:13pm

The top name choices for Kiwi babies changed little last year.

Noah held strong for the third year in a row as the top name for boys, shared by 244 other children in New Zealand.

Isla was the most popular girls’ name with 179 name registrations. It has consistently been in the top three since 2016.

Luca was the second most popular for boys, chosen by 236 parents this year, and Charlotte was second for girls, given to 178 babies.

Olivia remained a consistent favourite among parents of baby girls, entering the top 10 again last year, as it has done since 1994.

Jack also scored another year in the top 10, which it has done since 1998.

The top Māori baby names of the past year are released around Matariki.

“With over 58,000 births registered this year and 19,457 unique first names, it’s clear that while parents love individuality, established names like Noah and Isla continue to dominate,” Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden said.

“These trends give us fascinating snapshots of Kiwi culture and how enduring favourites shape the names we choose for the next generation.”

Van Velden said it was “always fun” to see where the names of leaders of the countries end up on the list.

“This year, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s first name was chosen for 20 babies, while Minister Winston Peters remained a rare pick with no fewer than six babies named Winston.

“Deputy Prime Minister, David Seymour’s name proved more popular, appearing 46 times. And my own name, Brooke, was given to 15 baby girls in 2025.”

Van Velden said while it is interesting to look at the data, it is also an important reminder for parents to make sure their baby’s name is officially registered.