MallowbyNames

Mataio

mah-TIE-oh · Of debated origin; possibly a variant of Matthew meaning 'gift of God' or a Maori form of Matthew.

2025 rank (boys)
#10,695
Babies named in 2025
6
Peak popularity
2013
2025 frequency
1 in 284,679 boys
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Rising since 2021

Rising since 2021, #10,695 for boys today.

Popularity of Mataio since 1998

Babies named Mataio per year in U.S. Social Security records.

61117200020102020Most births 2013Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1990s13
2000s31
2010s52
2020s24

Meaning & origin

Mataio is a distinctive name with roots in both Maori culture and the Hebrew-derived Matthew. First recorded in the United States in 1998, it has remained extremely rare, with a rank of 10,695 in 2025 and an occurrence rate of 1 in 284,679 boys. Its popularity peaked in 2013, but since 2021, it has been on a slow upward trajectory, suggesting renewed interest in Maori names or unique alternatives to Matthew. While no states have significant concentrations of the name, its multicultural appeal and melodic sound make it a rare but meaningful choice for parents seeking a name with depth and global resonance.

Mataio is a Maori adaptation of the name Matthew, which derives from the Hebrew name Matityahu meaning 'gift of Yahweh'. In Maori, the name is often used as a transliteration of Matthew, though it may also be a traditional Maori name of independent origin. It has been in occasional use in New Zealand and among Maori communities since the late 20th century.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Matt, Matty, Mata

Variants: Matiu, Matio, Mateo

Sibling names for Mataio

Names that share Mataio's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Aroha, Manaia, Tui, Ariana, Mia

Brothers: Tai, Mahi, Rongo, Tama, Nikau

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

M is for Mataio, our favorite little boy.

M is for Mataio…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Mataio's letter becomes Mataio's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Mataio's book

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Questions parents ask

What does the name Mataio mean?
Mataio likely means 'gift of God' as a Maori form of Matthew, but it may also be an indigenous Maori name with a different meaning.
How popular is the name Mataio?
Mataio is very rare in the United States. In 2025, it ranked 10,695th, with about 1 in 284,679 boys given the name.
Is Mataio a boy or girl name?
Mataio is primarily a boy's name.