My step father, a fiercely patriotic ‘Southern Man’ New Zealander has oft’ proclaimed that the Kiwis “punch above their weight”. It’s not just nationalistic pride either. For its modest population of 4 million people, this little Pacific island nation has certainly earned its share of accolades: Whether it’s scaling Everest or claiming the America’s cup, the Kiwis are as resilient as they are industrious.

Now, you can add one more title to their auspicious array:

World’s Whackiest Nation of Baby Namers

Yes, it’s official. The Kiwis are number one. The baby name world is still reverberating after last year’s tragic story of poor Talula which blew the cover off the sordid and harrowing history of New Zealand’s most appalling baby namers.

Now, the saga continues as on January 11 the world said hello to bouncing bundle Zealand-New. Welcomed to the world by parents Tomicina and Mana at Tauranga Hospital.

Don’t get me wrong; I’m not suggesting Zealand-New comparable to the likes of Midnight Chardonnay or Number 16 Bus Shelter (actual names of some of her less fortunate Kiwi contemporaries). Actually, on some level, I find it quite appealing in its freshness. I just hope the child’s handle doesn’t cause any confusion for her future post master.

The little girl’s full name is Zealand-New Sharron Phyllis Atareta Davoren. Sharron honours her grandmother, who is apparently responsible for Zealand-New and has certainly done her part to help cement NZ’s outstanding reputation for baby name novelty.

“It is unusual to name your child that”, Mother, Tomicina said.

The Kiwis also have quite a talent for understatement.

Source: Stuff.co.nz

What does Adolf Hitler have in common with Twisty Poi? Answer: Both are examples of proposed baby names blocked by the New Zealand register of Births Deaths and Marriages, a family court judge revealed.

These names, were among a list of inappropriate monikers cited by the justice in ruling that a nine-year-old girl would be put into court guardianship so her name could be changed from Talula Does the Hula From Hawaii. (The Guardian 2008). The judge expressed “profound concern” at the “very poor judgement” of the child’s parents, saying that the name made a fool of the child and “sets her up with a social disability and handicap”.

Other names that have been overruled by the New Zealand registrar of Births Deaths and Marriages include: Stallion, Yeah Detroit, Fish and Chips (twins?), Keenan Got Lucy (or is it Lucky?), Sex Fruit, Fat Boy, Satan and 4Real.

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