GUINNESS WORLD RECORD HOLDER

Laurence Watkins

The Man Behind the
World’s Longest Personal Name

Laurence Watkins is internationally recognised for holding the Guinness World Records title for the longest personal name. In 1990, he legally changed his name to include thousands of additional names, creating an extraordinary story of individuality, curiosity and determination.

Today, Laurence Watkins remains known simply as Laurence — while his remarkable name and world-record achievement continue to capture attention around the world.

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World Record Holder Authorised Name Change International Media Interest

A Name Unlike Any Other

In March 1990, Laurence Watkins legally changed his name through a Deed Poll, creating what would become one of the most unusual world records ever recognised by Guinness World Records.

The original record was awarded for 2,310 names. Guinness World Records now lists the achievement as 2,253 unique words, following a later change to its record guidelines. The record was officially dated 8 March 1990 and remains one of the most distinctive personal achievements associated with a name.

Laurence's decision was not simply about having a long name. He selected names that held significance to him, drawing inspiration from books and recommendations from colleagues while working at a city library.

What began as an unusual personal challenge ultimately became a Guinness World Records achievement and a story that has continued to fascinate people for more than three decades.

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RECORD HIGHLIGHTS

▣

1990

The year Laurence legally changed his name.

▤

2,253

Unique words currently listed by Guinness World Records.

▥

6+ Pages

The full name has been presented across multiple pages because of its extraordinary length.

◎

30+ Years

A record that has attracted international attention for decades.

Why Would Someone Choose Thousands of Names?

The idea began with Laurence's fascination with the unusual records featured in Guinness World Records.

While reading the Guinness World Records book from cover to cover, Laurence looked for a record he might realistically be able to challenge. He eventually discovered an opportunity to create a name longer than the existing record holder's.

Working at a city library, Laurence found names in books and also received suggestions from colleagues. The result was an extraordinary collection of names drawn from a wide range of influences.

For Laurence, the names represented individuality, curiosity and personal significance. His favourite is AZ2000, a name that represents the breadth of his collection from A to Z.

The process was not straightforward. Laurence challenged the decision and ultimately took the matter to the High Court in New Zealand, where he won the right to make the change.

“Each name has a meaning. Each name has a connection. Together, they form a story.”

Laurence Watkins

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More Than a World Record

I may have one of the longest personal names in the world, but to my family, friends and the people who know me, I am simply Laurence Watkins.

My world record is an unusual part of my life, but it is only one part of who I am.

The story behind my name reflects my curiosity and my willingness to explore an idea simply because it was different. What began as an interest in the unusual records featured in Guinness World Records became a defining and internationally recognised achievement.

Over the years, my name has created plenty of memorable moments — from the practical challenges of fitting it onto official documents to the considerable amount of time required to read the entire name aloud.

Yet the record continues to be something I am proud of.

Each name has its own place within the story, and together they represent an extraordinary example of individuality.

2,253 Words. One Extraordinary Story.

Each of Laurence’s Christian names holds great significance — explore them across six pages.

Laurence is best known simply as Laurence Watkins, but his full name runs to thousands of Christian names — each chosen for its personal significance. Because the complete name is so extensive, it is shown here across six pages so you can explore it section by section.

A Guinness World Records Achievement

Laurence Watkins' achievement has been recognised by Guinness World Records as the longest personal name.

The record was established on 8 March 1990 in Auckland, New Zealand, after Laurence legally changed his name at the age of 24. Guinness World Records currently records the achievement as 2,253 unique words.

The story has continued to attract international media attention, with Guinness World Records featuring Laurence and his remarkable name in recent coverage.

View the Record Certificate →

THE RECORD AT A GLANCE

🏆 RecordLongest Personal Name

👤 Record HolderLaurence Watkins

▣ Record Date8 March 1990

123 Current Guinness Figure2,253 unique words

⌖ LocationAuckland, New Zealand

◉ RecognitionGuinness World Records

Have a Story, Interview or Media Opportunity?

Laurence Watkins' world-record story has fascinated audiences for decades — from his extraordinary name and the story behind it to the legal journey that made the achievement possible.

For journalists, publishers, broadcasters, researchers, event organisers or anyone interested in learning more about Laurence and his Guinness World Records achievement, please get in touch.

Whether you are looking for an interview, a media story, additional information about the record or an opportunity to feature Laurence's unique story, enquiries are welcome.

Media & Press Enquiries

Laurence Watkins

Sydney, Australia

laurencewatkins@icloud.com

Contact Laurence →

The world is made of individuals.
I am one of them.

Laurence Watkins