Whatsinaname

onniue

Ask “what’s in a name?” on Niue Island and you can run into some interesting anecdotes.

Niueans have a propensity for naming their children after things, feelings or events—some times with no regard for their sex. It’s a fascinating custom and one that leads to some speculation.

“Merry Christmas” doesn’t need any speculation. But browsing through the records in the Niue Registrar’s office I came across “Beauty” and “Bright”. “Finally” set me to wondering whether he or she was the last of a long line of off spring. “Assemblyman” indi cated ambitious parents: “Right” was apparently the result of some boy-or-girl guesswork.

Then there was “Doctrine” and “Convent” and another called “Endeavour”. Not to mention “Show”, “Moose”, “Hercules” and “New”. And “Accountant” (who happens to be a girl).

But the real thought-stopper was the longest name of all—

“Heivahafifinehouahegafolia”.

She’s a girl!