We are committed to provide a consistent approach to naming of roads, parks and facilities and recognise mana whenua, local identity, environment, and cultural heritage.

Our current policies on roads-and-rights-of-waynaming and naming-of-reserves-and-facilities both date from 1993. As such, these old policies don’t reflect the significant changes that has taken place over the past 30 years or provide good guidance for the community or staff on naming.

In particular, our Community Boards, which make most of the decisions on names for roads, green spaces and facilities, have asked for improved guidance on naming and greater diversity in the names presented to them for consideration.

Generally speaking, no – a name is intended to be a permanent feature of a place, and should only occur when there’s a clear benefit to the community for change. However, if there are some situations where a name change might be appropriate, especially if there is confusion around way- and location-finding. The policy outlines that it’s not appropriate to change a name simply because the current name is no longer considered fashionable, or because current community members prefer a different road name or road type.

Consultation on this draft policy finishes on 27 August 2023. Staff will then collate the public’s feedback and present the policy to the Council for a decision. This is expected to happen by early 2024.

Incorporating Māori elements and names into the city’s regeneration is the correct way to recognise and honour Ōtautahi/Christchurch’s strong relationship with Ngāi Tahu, whose history on these lands is the oldest. We wish to strengthen connections with our city’s history and this is a way to enhance that. Te Reo Māori is an official language of New Zealand and tikanga Māori is central this country’s identity.

Yes. The policy provides guidelines on:

• Choosing and assessing names
• Dual names
• Gifted names and requesting Māori names
• Name-changes and alterations
• Naming roads
• Naming rights and sponsorship of facilities

Parks: A park includes any land administered by the Council under the provisions of the Reserves Act 1977 and the Local Government Act 2022 including any domain, foreshore, open space or greenspace area that is under the control or ownerships of the Council.

Road name: A road name provides for the clear identification of properties on that road for all users including residents and visitors, commercial services and, most importantly, for emergency services. A named road also provides an address.

Facilities: A facility/ community facility means a Council building, part of a building, or leased area that provides a facility for sport, recreation, the arts and entertainment or is a civic space. These community facilities include halls, libraries, community and sports centres and wharves.

A printed copy will be available upon request at Christchurch City Council Service Centres across the city.