Choosing the perfect name for your child can feel like one of the toughest decisions you’ll make as a parent. To make it a little easier for those expecting in 2024, we’ve rounded up this year's top 10 most popular Kiwi baby names for boys and girls.
It’s no surprise that last year’s favourites, Charlotte and Noah, are still popular, returning to the top 10. Other familiar names like Olivia, Harper, Ava, Lily, Isla, Luca, Jack, Oliver, Leo, and George have also kept their spots for 2024.
However, some popular boys' names from last year — Hudson, Henry, Theodore, and Charlie — have dropped in popularity, making way for Elijah, Arthur, and Theo. This is the first time Elijah has cracked the top 10, though it has been steadily climbing and sitting in the top 20 since 2019.
On the girls’ side, Ella, Hazel, and Willow have missed out on the top 10 this year. It’s the first time since 2018 that Willow has been absent from the list. Instead, names like Mila, Isabella, and Mia have grown in popularity to take their places.
With the list not ranked in order, the big question remains: which name will come out on top for 2024? Will Noah keep his spot for the boys, or could Elijah make an unexpected rise to the top?
For the girls, it's hard to imagine Charlotte losing her title after winning in 2023, 2021, and 2018. However, Olivia has been a consistent contender over the years, last claiming the title in 2016.
Earlier this year, the top 10 most popular Māori baby names were also revealed during the Matariki New Year celebrations in July.
These insights come from SmartStart, a helpful website that offers new and expectant parents step-by-step guidance and support, making it easier to find the services you and your baby need.
