Maps has an authentic new voice in New Zealand
Google Blog 2026-07-01 17:00:00
Context: Google Maps has introduced a new voice for users in New Zealand that accurately pronounces indigenous Māori place names while speaking English with a Kiwi accent. The update was developed in collaboration with language experts to honor local culture and ensure correct pronunciation of cities and towns. This feature is now rolling out globally on Android, iOS, Android Auto, and CarPlay.
Key Facts
- The new Google Maps voice for New Zealand users speaks English with a Kiwi accent while accurately pronouncing te reo Māori place names, thanks to advances in AI technology.
- Google partnered with language experts from Te Taura Whiri, the Māori Language Commission, and utilized publicly available New Zealand Geographic Board data to build the new voice.
- The update aims to recognize the history and culture of New Zealand, where te reo Māori is one of two official languages and is valued by three quarters of New Zealanders as an important part of the country's culture and identity.
- The new voice will be available globally today on Android, iOS, Android Auto, and CarPlay, and users can try it by setting their language preference to English (New Zealand) in the Google Maps app.
- Ngahiwi Apanui-Barr, chief executive of Te Taura Whiri, emphasized that correct pronunciation of Māori place names is the first step to unlocking the stories and histories connected to these names.