The Meaning of Potiki

How we chose our name.

We wanted a company name that had humility, yet showed potential. One that reflected that we were a small company with big aspirations…and a name that people could pronounce!

Potiki means the last-born, youngest child or baby of the family. Traditionally in Maori society the potiki was a favoured child, a special one. As a small tourism business operating in Auckland, set up by two young women who had no background in tourism, Potiki Adventures could be seen as the baby of the industry.

Also, Maui Potiki is one of the names of a legendary Maori hero (he’s the one famous for fishing up the North Island of NZ and bringing fire to mankind amongst other exploits). He was considered as a classic example of potiki.

‘He was quick, intelligent, bold, resourceful, cunning and fearless, epitomising the basic personality structure idealised by Maori society. As a heroic figure, Maui served as a model to all teina (junior children) and in particular the last-born, that provided they had the determination and qualities displayed by Maui, they too could succeed in life.’ (Taken from the book ‘Ka Whawhai Tonu Matou’ by Professor Ranginui Walker.)

We thought that personality traits outlined in the quote were great characteristics for a company.

Additionally, we would like Potiki Adventures to be an example to the young Maori people that we work with, that even from humble beginnings, through determination and using their strengths, they too can succeed.

>> Meet the Potiki Adventures directors