What is the native name for New Zealand?

The native name for New Zealand is Aotearoa. This term is rooted in the Māori language, which is the language of the Indigenous Māori people of New Zealand. Aotearoa is often translated as "land of the long white cloud," reflecting the significance of natural features and the connection to the landscape within Māori culture. This name emphasizes the country's essence as viewed through the lens of its Indigenous peoples, giving it a cultural depth that resonates with many New Zealanders today.

The other choices do not serve as the native name for New Zealand. Pākehā refers to New Zealanders of European descent, primarily those who are descendants of British settlers, and it does not denote the country itself. Kiwiland is an informal and colloquial term used to refer to New Zealand but has no historical or cultural roots in the native languages. Nu Tireni is a phonetic attempt by some to represent New Zealand in te reo Māori but is not the recognized native name for the country. Aotearoa remains the officially recognized name in using cultural and historical contexts.