Meaning & History
Manaaki is a Māori male given name meaning "care, support". The name embodies the core Māori value of manaaki (hospitality, kindness, and looking after others), which is central to Māori culture and social interactions.
Notable Bearers
Notable people with the name include Arnold Manaaki Wilson (1928–2012), a New Zealand painter known for his vibrant and distinctive style influenced by both Māori and European traditions. Another bearer is Manaaki Selby-Rickit (born 1996), a New Zealand rugby union player who has represented the national sevens team. The name also appears in the research institute Manaaki Whenua, which focuses on landcare and environmental science in New Zealand.
Cultural Significance
In Māori culture, the concept of manaaki is not merely personal care but an obligation to extend hospitality and support to others, reflecting communal values. The name thus carries a deep ethical resonance and is a positive attribute.
- Meaning: "care, support"
- Origin: Māori
- Type: First name (masculine)
- Usage Regions: New Zealand, among Māori communities
Sources: Wikipedia — Manaaki