Declining since 2016.
Popularity of Kauri since 1992
Babies named Kauri per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2015, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Kauri's real moment was 2021.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1990s | 13 | 0 |
| 2000s | 37 | 5 |
| 2010s | 50 | 16 |
| 2020s | 24 | 11 |
Meaning & origin
Kauri is a nature-inspired name drawn from the towering kauri tree of New Zealand, a symbol of strength and longevity. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1992, and its usage has since fluctuated, peaking in 2021. The name has been on a falling trajectory since 2016, reflecting a possible plateau after a period of modest growth. Despite its rarity, it appeals to parents seeking an earthy, distinctive choice. The name's association with a specific tree gives it a grounded, organic quality, and its unisex flexibility adds to its modern appeal. While it lacks a deep historical tradition as a given name, its connection to the natural world provides a clear and appealing meaning.
Kauri is a Maori word referring to Agathis australis, a massive evergreen tree endemic to New Zealand. As a given name, it emerged in the late 20th century, particularly in New Zealand and other English-speaking countries, drawing from the natural world. It gained some popularity in the United States after 1992 and peaked in 2021.
“Kauri” around the world
Where Kauri lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
New Zealand
22
babies in 2025
Sources: NZ Dept of Internal Affairs (New Zealand).
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Kaury
Sibling names for Kauri
Names that share Kauri's style, for a brother or sister.
