Rio
Meaning: River — flowing freely, always moving forward
Origin: Spanish/Portuguese/Japanese
Gender: Boy
Rank in New Zealand: #673
Total births: 167
History: Rio reflects the values and spirit that define New Zealand families, It is sharing the determination and grit celebrated on rugby fields from Dunedin to Whangarei. Rio stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Kiwi culture.
Explore more at New Zealand Baby Names on BabyNa.me
Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from New Zealand’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (2025) | #367 |
| Babies named Rio in 2025 | 13 |
| Total recorded in New Zealand | 167 |
| Peak year | 2024 (30 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #162 |
| Years in records | 2011–2025 (11 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↓ 9 spots |
Frequently asked about Rio
What does the name Rio mean?
Rio means “River — flowing freely, always moving forward” from Spanish/Portuguese/Japanese roots.
What is the origin of the name Rio?
Rio has Spanish/Portuguese/Japanese origin. The traditional meaning is “River — flowing freely, always moving forward”.
How popular is Rio in New Zealand?
Rio ranked #367 in New Zealand in 2025 — given to 13 babies that year.
When was Rio most popular?
Rio peaked in 2024 with 30 babies registered that year in New Zealand.
Is Rio a boy or girl name?
Rio is predominantly a boys' name in New Zealand — over 90% of Rios in registered births are male.
How long has Rio been recorded in New Zealand?
Rio appears in birth records in New Zealand across 11 years — from 2011 through 2025.