What is the Maori name for the South Island?

Te Waipounamu is indeed the Maori name for the South Island of New Zealand. This name reflects the deep cultural and historical significance of the land to the Maori people. It translates to "the waters of greenstone," which references the area's abundant natural resources, including the precious nephrite jade known as greenstone or pounamu. The connection between the name and the land highlights the importance of natural elements in Maori culture as well as the indigenous narrative surrounding the South Island.

In contrast, the other options do not relate to the South Island. Te Aroha is a mountain and also a town in the Waikato region, Aotearoa is the Maori name for New Zealand as a whole, and Te Kuiti is a town in the North Island, known for its sheep farming and as a gateway for tourists exploring the Waitomo Caves. Each of these names serves a significant role in New Zealand's geography and cultural identity, but they do not pertain to the South Island specifically.