Most pass on name change

Should the Rimutaka Hill be called Remutaka Pass?

An official name change for Rimutaka Hill is on the cards, which some online readers called a waste of time and money.

The Remutaka Pass Co-ordinating Group has applied to the New Zealand Geographic Board to rename the hill, Remutaka Pass.

It said it more accurately described the area and was the correct spelling.

Remutaka translates as sitting down to rest, while Rimutaka has no meaning.

Peter van Wanrooy questioned the change.

"It's been like that for years and years why change something that doesn't need to be changed?"

Kate Hansen-Stork said the geographical board was responsible for changing Wanganui to Whanganui.

"Tell them to piss off, South Wairarapa. I lived in Featherston for a number of years and travelled that hill numerous times.

"Why call it a pass? A ridiculous idea. I live in Wanganui and have put up with the whole H debate, stand up to those people who want to change the hill name."

Grant Morrell said: "Another money time-waster and degrading to those who built the road and those who marched over it to war.

"It will always be called the Rimutaka Hill Road - get over it or stay on the other side."

Barbara Jackson also agreed.

"What a total waste of time, money and resources ... very much like this thing over changing our flag.

"If it ain't broke, don't try and fix it."

Ann Seaton said it had been known as the Rimutakas "for aeons".

Damian Te Uamairangi Rangi said: "Ages. Decades. Aeons. Like 150 or so years? Yet it was known as something else for 600 years prior to that."

Jackie McCullough said: "I support changing the name and rectifying a historical error. It is the right thing to do."

Jane Johnston said: "I also support changing the name, to rectify an historical error, and to give the 'hill' a more accurate description."

Kuini de la Mare said: "Change is good, I'm not sure why everyone is so adverse to correcting an error. I agree it shouldn't have to cost a lot of money but then, a lot of money is wasted on worse things."

Debbie Carman said it wouldn't matter. "Call it what they like ... it will always be 'The Hill' to locals."

Ilicit said: "A 'pass' is a road, or method of egress, why do the double name thing? It simply needs to be a pass. Auckland's Khyber Pass Road has a similar problem. Drop the 'road', then I may be in favour."