If you are creating a new road or asking to rename an existing road, you will need to apply to Council for approval.
Naming New Roads - Subdivisions
If your subdivision includes a new public or private road, you will need to apply for a road name before lodging your survey plan.
When to apply
The developer, subdivider, landowner, or applicant for the subdivision/development - would need to apply for a road name before lodging the section 223 survey plan.
What is needed for the application
- your preferred road name and at least one alternative
- the road type, such as Road, Street, Lane or Place
- the meaning or background of each proposed name
- how the names connect to the local area
- evidence of mana whenua engagement, where relevant
- written permission from whānau/family if the name commemorates a person
- confirmation from Council that the name is not already in use or too similar to another name
Renaming an existing road
Road names are intended to last. Renaming is only considered where there is a strong reason, such as access changes, service delivery issues, or duplicated names causing confusion.
Mana whenua names
The use of Māori road names is encouraged. Council can help applicants connect with the relevant mana whenua group before an application is assessed.
How we assess road names
We check that names:
- are easy to spell, say and find
- are not the same as, or too similar to, existing road names
- reflect local history, culture, landscape, environment or identity
- support emergency services, postal services and visitors to find addresses safely
- meet national addressing standards
