Posted 24 Jun 2009

Though some countries have towns with names which can raise a laugh or two, New Zealand is one of the best places for travellers to visit if they are seeking comically-named places.

The New Zealand Visa Bureau points out that although Australia‘s Northern Territory is home to Humpty Doo and Boing Boing, the Maori language has made New Zealand’s place names even funnier and more unique.

First there is the town of Waipu, pronounced ‘why poo’, the sign outside of which sparks a lot of photo opportunities among tourists.

Also, there is an abundance of places beginning with the prefix ‘wha’, which is actually pronounced ‘fha’, such as Whakatane and Whakamoa, the bureau points out.

It is perhaps little wonder why an advertising campaign launched by a car hire firm in New Zealand with the tagline "Rent a car for only $25 a day and you can visit any Whaka", got people chuckling last summer.

Another name with the ‘wha’ prefix – Whakapapa – is a popular skiing destination.

Category: Australasia