Kiwi parents kept it classic in 2025, and plenty of Hibiscus Coast families will recognise the trend.

Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden has released New Zealand’s most popular baby names for 2025, based on birth registrations.

Noah held on as the top boys’ name for a third year, with 244 registrations.

Isla led the girls’ list with 179 registrations, and has stayed in the top three since 2016.

Luca was right behind Noah on 236 registrations.

Charlotte was the second most popular girls’ name, given to 178 newborns.

Van Velden said there were more than 58,000 births registered this year, with 19,457 unique first names.

She said that shows parents still like to choose something individual, even while familiar favourites stay on top.

Some names have staying power across decades too.

Olivia first entered the top 10 in 1994 and has stayed there ever since.

Jack joined the top 10 in 1998 and has featured every year.

Van Velden also noted political leaders’ names showing up in baby naming.

Christopher appeared 20 times in 2025, Winston no fewer than six times, David 46 times, and Brooke 15 times for baby girls.

She reminded parents the key step is getting the name officially registered, recommending it is done within the first two months.

SmartStart is free to use at https://smartstart.services.govt.nz/news/baby-names.

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