In New Zealand, pet owners are sticking with a beloved classic, as Luna has once again been crowned the most popular pet name for the sixth straight year. The New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR) released its latest data, revealing that while timeless names hold strong, a new wave of names inspired by popular culture, from children’s television to national sports heroes, is rapidly gaining traction across the country.
Classic Names Continue to Reign Supreme
For the sixth year in a row, Luna stands firm as the number one choice for New Zealand’s pet owners. This reflects a lasting preference for names that are both simple and charming. Following closely are other perennial favorites like Bella, Milo, and Charlie, which consistently appear at the top of the list for various types of pets.
These names are popular for a reason. According to the NZCAR, they have a friendly and approachable feel that resonates with families. Names like Bella suggest elegance, while Milo and Charlie often bring to mind a sense of playful loyalty, making them perfect fits for beloved animal companions.
The Growing Influence of Pop Culture on Pet Names
This year’s report highlights a significant rise in names taken directly from popular media and sports. The hit children’s show “Bluey” has had a noticeable effect, with many pets now being named after its cherished characters. This trend shows how media that families enjoy together influences even the naming of a pet.
Fantasy and sports have also left their mark. The enduring legacy of “The Lord of the Rings” is evident, with a resurgence in names from the franchise. At the same time, New Zealand’s passion for rugby is showcased through names inspired by All Blacks players.
- From “Bluey”: A growing number of pets are being named Bluey, Bandit, and Bingo.
- From “The Lord of the Rings”: The register includes 17 Frodos, 13 Bilbos, and even two Gollums.
- From the All Blacks: There are now 20 Ardies, 18 TJs, and seven Razors registered.
These choices demonstrate that pets are truly part of the family, often named after characters and figures that owners admire and love.
The Official Top 10 Pet Names for 2024
The NZCAR’s official list for 2024 reveals a mix of steadfast favorites and popular modern choices. These names are popular across all registered species, including cats, dogs, rabbits, and horses, showing broad appeal.
| Rank | Pet Name |
| 1 | Luna |
| 2 | Bella |
| 3 | Milo |
| 4 | Charlie |
| 5 | Coco |
| 6 | Daisy |
| 7 | Poppy |
| 8 | Nala |
| 9 | Molly |
| 10 | Frankie |
How Naming Choices Vary by Animal
While the overall top 10 list shows general trends, pet owners often choose names that they feel suit the specific type of animal. Different species have their own distinct naming patterns, reflecting their unique characteristics.
For cats, short and sweet names like Luna, Milo, and Coco are top choices. Dog owners often prefer affectionate and playful names such as Poppy, Daisy, and Charlie. Rabbit names tend to be cute and endearing, with Archie, Cookie, and Honey being popular. Meanwhile, horse names like Bailey, Jasper, and Marley often evoke a sense of strength and elegance.
What These Trends Say About Pet Owners
The data from NZCAR, which manages a microchip database for over 1.3 million pets, offers a unique window into the lives of New Zealanders. David Lloyd, the general manager of NZCAR, noted that these naming trends reveal what is important to people.
“Pet names reflect the things that matter to people,” Lloyd said. “These trends really highlight the special bond between pets and their families, showing how pets become part of our lives in ways big and small.” The choice of a name is a personal one that deepens the connection between a pet and its family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular pet name in New Zealand for 2024?
Luna is the most popular pet name in New Zealand for the sixth consecutive year, followed by other classic names like Bella, Milo, and Charlie.
Are pet names inspired by TV shows and movies common?
Yes, there is a growing trend of names inspired by pop culture. This year saw a significant increase in names from the TV show “Bluey” and “The Lord of the Rings” franchise.
Do popular names differ between cats and dogs?
Yes, naming trends vary by species. While Luna and Bella are popular for both, names like Poppy and Daisy are more common for dogs, while Coco and Nala are frequently chosen for cats.
How many pets are registered with the NZCAR?
The New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR) is the national microchip database holding information for over 1.3 million pets, which helps reunite lost pets with their owners.
