New Zealand Geographic Board corrects spelling of popular beach name

The New Zealand Geographic Board revoked the spelling Kaiteriteri for a popular beach at the top of the South Island and replaced it with Kaiteretere.

This change follows the passage of the Te Here ā Nuku Bill in August, which settled a long-standing land dispute known as the Nelson Tenths. The name change recognizes the language and customs of customary landowners.

Kerensa Johnston, a trustee for the Te Here ā Nuku Trust, stated that the previous spelling was incorrect and did not exist as a word. The trust intends to use the corrected name as part of a broader effort to share the cultural history and narratives of the coastline with the public. The legislative settlement returns 3068 hectares of land to the original owners. This land includes the Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve and portions of the Abel Tasman Great Walk.

The settlement also includes a 420 million dollar compensation payment to the customary owners. The board notes that various incorrect spellings appeared in government records as early as 1859. While some commercial entities expressed concern about the impact on branding and signage, the trust expects to implement the changes gradually over the next year. The department of conservation also worked with the trust to ensure that the public can continue to access these conservation areas.