Changing Names in New Zealand.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 301, 19 December 1931, Page 8

Changing Names in New Zealand.

Geographic Board

Alterations on Map Rouse a Controversy. CONTROVERSY which has been proceeding in Wellington on the question of the name of the Tongariro River has elicited, for one thing, the fact that a body called the Geographic Board makes recommendations as to changes in New Zealand place names, which thereupon are given effect to in the Government maps without an opportunity for discussion by the public. This policy of secrecy about arbitary changes in names of districts and natural features is likely to lead to some trouble. In fact it has already done so in the matter of the Tongariro River, for two or three of the Government Departments are opposed to any undesirable interference with the famous name. The board and the Survey draughtsmen have nevertheless superceded it with “ Upper Waikato ” as the principal designation of the river. What is more important still is the weight of local opinion, which the name-changers have not taken into account. The Maori and Pakeha population of the district is very strongly opposed to any attempt to substitute a geographically incorrect name for the ancient and historic Tongariro. It is pointed out that “ Upper Waikato ” rightly belongs to that section of the Waikato River from its source at the north end of Lake Taupo to the head of navigation at Cambridge. This customary designation was apparently unknown to, or ignored by, the body which authorised the change. An Important Principle. A rather important principle is involved in this matter of name-changing. The people of a district, and especially the original name-givers, the Maoris, are entitled to the first voice in any discussion on the subject. Our local bodies, such as the City Council or a county council, would not think of altering an important name without consulting the residents. This deference to local opinion and local knowledge in the case of a street or a road or a stream is a greater obligation still where a world-famous name is concerned. The Maori objection to officious meddling with their great names cannot be brushed away as of no account. No more easily can officials be allowed to juggle with a name which general use by Europeans, as in this example of the Tongariro River, has made popular and convenient. It is in order, now that the question has arisen, that the Ministerial head should be asked to stay the hands of his Place Names Board in the future until the people most concerned, and those with the best local knowledge, have been consulted, and the suggestions published. —J.C.