Tamati Waka Nene
A prominent Maori chief and diplomat who played a key role in New Zealand's history during the 19th century.
IPA Pronunciation
tɑːˈmɑːti
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Syllables
Tamati is the Maori adaptation of the name Thomas, which originates from the Aramaic 'Ta'oma'', meaning 'twin.' The name entered the Maori lexicon through early Christian missionary influence, blending indigenous culture with biblical tradition. It reflects both familial ties and spiritual heritage.
Cultural Significance of Tamati
Tamati holds a respected place in Maori culture as an indigenous adaptation of a biblical name. It represents the blending of Maori heritage with Christian missionary history in New Zealand. The name often signals a connection to family and community values, embodying the significance of 'twin' which in many cultures symbolizes duality and balance.
Tamati Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Tamati is embraced as a unisex name in New Zealand and among Maori communities, reflecting a resurgence in indigenous pride and cultural naming practices. It is moderately popular, balancing traditional roots with a modern, approachable sound. Parents often choose it to honor Maori heritage while connecting to universal biblical themes.
Name Energy & Essence
The name Tamati carries the essence of “Maori form of Thomas, meaning 'twin'” from Maori tradition. Names beginning with "T" often embody qualities of truth-seeking, tenacity, and transformation.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Tamati holds a respected place in Maori culture as an indigenous adaptation of a biblical name. It represents the blending of Maori heritage with Christian missionary history in New Zealand. The name often signals a connection to family and community values, embodying the significance of 'twin' which in many cultures symbolizes duality and balance.
Tamati Ngakaho
Maori leader and warrior known for his influence in tribal affairs and resistance.
Tamati Rangi
Historical Maori figure remembered for his role in cultural preservation and leadership.
Tamati Coffey
Television presenter
Tamati Ellison
Rugby player
Tamati Reedy
Academic and educator
Shortland Street ()
Whale Rider ()
The Dead Lands ()
Boy ()
Once Were Warriors ()
The Tattooist ()
Rūrangi ()
Mahana ()
Tamati
🌐Spanish
Tamati
🌐French
Tamati
🌐German
Tamati
🌐Italian
タマティ
🌐Japanese
塔玛提
🌐Chinese
تاماتي
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Tamati
Tamati is famously used in New Zealand as a direct Maori translation of Thomas, a testament to how biblical names were integrated into indigenous languages.
Personality Traits for Tamati
Those named Tamati are often perceived as balanced, empathetic, and strong-willed. The meaning 'twin' suggests a duality in character, combining kindness with determination. Tamatis tend to be community-oriented, thoughtful, and creative, with a natural ability to bridge diverse perspectives.
What does the name Tamati mean?
Tamati is a Maori name meaning “Maori form of Thomas, meaning 'twin'”. Tamati is the Maori adaptation of the name Thomas, which originates from the Aramaic 'Ta'oma'', meaning 'twin.' The name entered the Maori lexicon through early Christian missionary influence, blending indigenous culture with biblical tradition. It reflects both familial ties and spiritual heritage.
How do you pronounce Tamati?
Tamati is pronounced (IPA: tɑːˈmɑːti). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Tamati?
Popular nicknames for Tamati include: Tama, Tami, Tam, Mati, Tate, Taz, Tay, Tamo, TamTam, Mat.
Who are famous people named Tamati?
Famous people named Tamati include: , , , Tamati Coffey, Tamati Ellison.
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Tamati is a beautiful Maori name meaning “Maori form of Thomas, meaning 'twin'”. Tamati is the Maori adaptation of the name Thomas, which originates from the Aramaic 'Ta'oma'', meaning 'twin.' The name entered the Maori lexicon through early Christian missionary influence, blendin...
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