The Te Hiku Forum in the far north says tourist operators should support calls to restore the original Maori name of 90 Mile Beach.
The four iwi in the forum want the beach renamed Te Oneroa a Tohe as part of their claim settlement.
Te Rarawa chair Haami Piripi says he disagrees with the argument by some moteliers and tour companies that foreign visitors will find the pronounciation of the name difficult.
He told Waatea News that tourism marketing already plays up the connection between the beach and the pathway spirits are believed to travel on their way to Te Rerenga Wairua or Cape Reinga.
