Road names provide a clear identification of properties on the road for all users, including residents, visitors, commercial services, and emergency services.
A named road also provides an address, which allows for the sale of the property.
The Tauranga City Council Naming Policy 2020 provides a consistent approach to naming streets, reserves, community facilities and other public places in Tauranga. This is to ensure the identity of the city is recognised and maintained in the naming of public places.
Naming of streets, roadways or reserves application (178kb pdf)
Roads that need a name
When new roads are created through a subdivision or other development, they need to be named.
All public roads need a road name.
Private roads, including those within retirement complexes, must be named if there are more than, or there is the potential to develop, six houses on a private road.
Roads that don't need a name
A short cul-de-sac or private road with five or less address sites that are not proposed to be lengthened or have additional address sites, do not need to be separately named.
When to start a road name application
When new roads are created through a subdivision, and a subdivision resource consent is approved, the road-naming process should be started as soon as possible.
All road names should be approved prior to applying for a Section 223 RMA certificate to ensure there is no potential delay in development.
Choosing a road name
Road names should:
- recognise and maintain the local identity of Tauranga
- reflect on important people, places and events that are important in the history of the area
- not be duplicated in the Tauranga City or Western Bay of Plenty District Council areas
- preferably be short, single words
- not sound similar to an existing street name
- be no more than 16 characters plus the road name
- be clear and unambiguous.
Helpful tip: if you need help with ideas for road names -
- Contact mana whenua representatives in your area.
- Contact local historical societies, community groups, sports clubs etc.
- Research the history of the local area.
- Consider the road names surrounding the development.
Engage with mana whenua
We encourage the use of Māori road names to enable greater visibility of mana whenua connections to Tauranga.
Engaging relevant mana whenua early in the development process can help in selecting new road names based on local themes.
Submit an application
Once you have chosen your three options for proposed road names, you will need to complete the road name application form.
Naming of streets, roadways or reserves application (178kb pdf)
Email your completed application form and supporting documents to planning@tauranga.govt.nz.
Ensure you attach your supporting evidence, including the approved site plans, as PDF documents.
The Environmental Planning team will then process your application.