Old name restored for iconic New Zealand lake

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Lake Tekapo will now start to be referred to as Takapō.

Takapō, meaning “to leave in haste at night”, is the traditional Māori name given to the lake. However, it turns out its name has been misspelled for more than 100 years.

The Mackenzie District Council will start using the dual names of Tekapo and Takapō.

A survey of local residents found almost all who responded did not want a name change.

But Mayor Graham Smith said despite the survey results, he thinks people will be supportive of the council starting to use the dual name.

He said ultimately they need to use and respect the name that Takapō was given.

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Shem Banbury - Kiwi Kids News Editor

Shem Banbury is the Editor of Kiwi Kids News and is the Deputy Principal at Mount Maunganui Intermediate. In his spare time, he likes to train and compete in triathlons, play cricket and spend time with his family.

3 Responses

Proud Kai Tahu! says:

March 2, 2021 at 10:16 am

Its about time they changed it to its real name.
Hi :) says:

March 3, 2021 at 6:10 pm

I like the new name but it will be confusing cuz people might forget that its changed
Roturua is the best says:

March 4, 2021 at 10:50 am

Why was it changed tho it should have stayed the normal name since it was named