Victoria University of Wellington’s council has agreed to simplify its name to University of Wellington.

A name change for Victoria University of Wellington is a step closer, with the institution's council agreeing in principle to a new name of University of Wellington.

The council has made a draft decision to recommend Education Minister Chris Hipkins approve the moniker as its new legal name.

If approved, the 'name simplification' would also see the Māori name of the university changed to Te Herenga Waka.

The announcement was made on Friday night, with a final decision due on August 27.



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"The draft decision also includes a commitment to the ongoing use of the word 'Victoria' to ensure its heritage is honoured and maintained," the university said.

Vice-chancellor professor Grant Guilford said earlier this year the name change came about due to ongoing confusion overseas, with degrees and research attributed to other universities with similar names.

SUPPLIED Professor Grant Guildford, vice-chancellor of Victoria University of Wellington.

Research on the international student market showed how a name change could help fix an issue with the university's prominence.

A name change was on the cards to provide "clarity" and avoid other universities taking credit for work done at the Wellington campus, he added.

"The achievements of our staff and students, and for that matter our city, can be attributed to other institutions and countries, dimming our international standing."

GRANT MATTHEW/STUFF Education Minister Chris Hipkins will be asked to approve University of Wellington as the institution's new name.

Chancellor Neil Paviour-Smith said thorough debate and consideration of evidence had been involved in making the decision.

Further and final feedback on the name can be lodged over the next two weeks.