New Zealand’s Name Game: Government Rejects "Rogue," "Crown," and More

New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs has released its annual list of baby names that didn’t make the cut in 2024, offering a fascinating glimpse into the limits of parental creativity and the government’s role in shaping personal identity. The list, comprising 40 rejected names, reveals a range of reasons for disapproval, from resembling official titles to potentially causing offense or confusion.
Among the rejected names are "Rogue," "Crown," "Fanny," and "Mighty," highlighting the diverse criteria employed by the Department of Internal Affairs when evaluating name requests. The rejections spark a conversation about the balance between parental autonomy and the potential impact of a name on a child’s life.
The most common reason for rejection appears to be the use of names that resemble titles or ranks. The name "King" was requested and denied a staggering 11 times, suggesting a desire among some parents to bestow a sense of authority or prestige upon their child. Similarly, "Prince" and "Princess" were also rejected, along with alternative spellings like "Pryncess" and "Prynce," demonstrating a consistent effort to prevent names that could be perceived as misleading or inappropriate.
Interestingly, the list also includes names associated with marijuana, reflecting a modern trend of incorporating pop culture or personal interests into baby naming. "Sativa" and "Indica," two well-known marijuana strains, were both requested and rejected, indicating the government’s stance against names that might be deemed controversial or linked to illegal substances.
The Department of Internal Affairs emphasizes the importance of careful consideration when choosing a name, stating, "We continue to urge parents to think carefully about names. Names are a gift. Generally, the name registered will be with the individual for the rest of their lives." This statement underscores the potential long-term consequences of a name and the responsibility parents bear in selecting one that will serve their child well.
The legal framework governing baby names in New Zealand is outlined in the 2021 Births, Deaths, Marriages and Relationships Registration Act. According to the Act, names cannot be offensive, excessively long, or include symbols or numerals. Names that might fall into these categories undergo a thorough review process, considering factors such as how the name might be perceived in the community, its spelling and pronunciation, its potential impact on others, and the parents’ rationale for choosing it.
When a name is rejected, the parents are given the opportunity to provide further justification for their choice. However, in most cases, parents ultimately opt for a different name that complies with the regulations. This suggests a willingness to cooperate with the government’s guidelines and prioritize their child’s well-being.
New Zealand is not alone in having regulations surrounding baby names. Several other countries, including Germany, Denmark, Sweden, and Iceland, have strict naming laws aimed at protecting children from potentially harmful or offensive names. These laws often prioritize cultural norms, linguistic appropriateness, and the child’s future well-being.
In contrast, the United States has relatively few restrictions on baby names. Each state has its own set of rules, but generally, names are allowed as long as they are not obscene or derogatory. Some states also have limitations on the use of symbols and special characters. For example, in Texas, a baby’s first, middle, and last names combined cannot exceed 100 letters, and the use of special characters, numbers, and diacritical marks is prohibited.
The differences in baby naming laws across countries reflect varying cultural values and legal philosophies. Some societies prioritize individual freedom and parental autonomy, while others emphasize the importance of protecting children from potential harm and upholding cultural norms.
The release of New Zealand’s rejected baby names list provides a valuable insight into the complexities of naming conventions and the role of government in regulating personal identity. While some may view the restrictions as an infringement on parental rights, others argue that they are necessary to ensure that children are given names that will serve them well throughout their lives.
The debate over baby naming laws raises fundamental questions about the balance between individual freedom and societal well-being. As societies evolve and cultural norms change, it is likely that these laws will continue to be debated and refined to reflect the evolving values and priorities of each nation. Ultimately, the goal is to create a system that respects both parental autonomy and the best interests of the child.
The New Zealand case serves as a reminder that a name is more than just a label; it is an integral part of a person’s identity and can have a significant impact on their life. Therefore, choosing a name is a decision that should be made with careful consideration and a deep understanding of the potential consequences.