Renaming and naming our roads
Council has the authority to name or rename roads, whether they are public, private, or rights of way (ROWs). Appropriate names are those that are sufficiently unique, culturally appropriate, and meet the requirements of emergency services.
Who has the authority?
Naming a new Road: The Community Board and mana whenua are consulted for the naming of new or unnamed public roads. After an application is received to name a new road our team prepares a report for the Board to review and mana whenua are sent information so they can advise on the appropriateness of the proposed names or suggest an alternative Māori name. The final decision is made by staff with delegated authority.
Renaming an existing road: The process is similar for renaming an existing road, and involves input from the Community Board and mana whenua.
Māori Names
- While it’s not required to use a Māori name, we encourage the use of names in te reo Māori as part of our goal to promote social and cultural wellbeing.
- Consultation: Whether the name is in English or Māori, local iwi/hapū will be consulted to ensure the name is appropriate. In some cases, mana whenua may suggest a culturally significant name for the area.
How to apply
- Read the policy: Start by reading the "Road Naming and Property Numbering and Naming Policy" here.
- Fill out the application Form: Complete the Road Naming or Renaming Application Form
- Provide a map: Submit a detailed map showing the road in question.
- Collect feedback from all property owners who will be affected by the name change.
- Consult iwi/hapū (Optional): If you’ve already consulted with local iwi/hapū, include details in the history section of your application.
Our process
- Check name availability: We will check with Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) to ensure the proposed names are available and meet NZ/AU Road Standards.
- Consult iwi/hapū: We will also consult local iwi/hapū for feedback. This process may take about a month. If you prefer to consult directly, a list of groups is available here: TKM | Te Tai Tokerau | Te Kahui Mangai.
- Note: If the proposed name isn’t approved at any stage, we will ask you to provide alternative names.
- Community Board Review: The final report is submitted to the Community Board. You’ll be informed of the meeting’s date and time and can attend to speak about your application (optional).
- Renaming an existing Road: If the application is for renaming, the report also goes to Council for a final decision, which may add another month to the process.
- Outcome notification: Once a decision is made, we will notify you and all relevant organisations of the outcome.
