Birdshit street re-named

A local council in New Zealand is moving to clear up any confusion over a street sign that has vastly different meanings depending on whether it is in Maori or English.

A host of languages differentiate short and long vowels by adding small strokes or dots above them, including Maori.

This subtle touch can make a world of difference to a word's meaning.

KaaKaa is a bird and Kaka is something they would deposit on a statue.

In the small North Island town of Tokoroa, they have taken complaints from residents living on Kaka Street so serious that they are going to have the signs changed.

Maori Party leader Tariana Turia welcomed the addition of the dots, saying it is a fitting recognition of the language.

Meanwhile the ratepayer who drew it to Council's attention reckons it is a relief for residents who have been the butt of more than a few gags from their Maori mates.