Kiingi Tuheitia’s passing marks a significant moment for New Zealand, prompting reflection on his storied legacy.
At a Glance
- New Zealand’s Māori King, Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, died at age 69.
- He passed away in a hospital after heart surgery.
- The Māori King holds a largely ceremonial but significant role in New Zealand.
- Prime Minister Christopher Luxon praised Tuheitia’s commitment to his people and Māori traditions.
Remembering Kiingi Tuheitia’s Reign
Kiingi Tuheitia ascended the throne in 2006, following his mother’s death. His reign was marked by a steadfast dedication to advocating for Māori rights and preserving Māori cultural heritage. Over the next 18 years, he became a pivotal figure in promoting social justice and equality within New Zealand. His efforts in uniting Māori tribes and standing against governmental policies that threatened Māori interests made him a prominent and respected leader.
King Tuheitia’s death followed heart surgery, and he was recovering when he passed. His passing came just after thousands gathered for annual celebrations marking his ascension to the throne. He was also known for recently coordinating unity talks for Māori in response to government policies perceived as unfavorable. His significant yet largely ceremonial role allowed him to influence both local and national discussions on Māori interests.
🔵 NEW ZEALAND'S MAORI KING TUHEITIA DIES AGED 69
Full Story → https://t.co/uzq2cfIsu8
New Zealand's Maori King Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII died peacefully on Friday morning at age 69, according to a statement released by his representatives.
— PiQ (@PiQSuite) August 29, 2024
International and National Tributes
King Charles III and Queen Camilla have expressed their sadness over Kiingi Tuheitia’s death. In a heartfelt tribute, King Charles III noted his decades-long friendship with Tuheitia, reflecting on the late king’s dedication to Māori culture and traditions.
“I had the greatest pleasure of knowing Kiingi Tuheitia for decades. He was deeply committed to forging a strong future for Māori and Aotearoa New Zealand founded upon culture, traditions and healing, which he carried out with wisdom and compassion,” King Charles III.
National leaders and local figures also paid their respects. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon highlighted Tuheitia’s unwavering commitment to his people and untiring efforts to uphold the Kiingitanga values. He described the king’s death as a profound loss for the entire nation.
🔵 NEW ZEALAND'S MAORI KING TUHEITIA DIES AGED 69
Full Story → https://t.co/uzq2cfIsu8
New Zealand's Maori King Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII died peacefully on Friday morning at age 69, according to a statement released by his representatives.
— PiQ (@PiQSuite) August 29, 2024
Kiingi Tuheitia’s Final Journey
The next chapter for the Kiingitanga movement will be determined by tribal heads, who will appoint a new leader before Kiingi Tuheitia’s burial on Taupiri Mountain. Before his final resting place, he will lie in state at the Turangawaewae Marae for five days, where mourners will gather to pay their respects. This traditional send-off reflects the deep roots of Māori customs and the importance of communal mourning in Māori culture.
“The death of King Tuheitia is a moment of great sadness for followers of Kiingitanga, Maaoridom, and the entire nation,” Rahui Papa, a Kiingitanga spokesperson, expressed while highlighting the magnitude of this loss.
Kiingi Tuheitia’s reign will be remembered for his relentless fight for Māori rights and his role in preserving Māori culture. While his passing marks the end of an era, his legacy as a unifying figure and a beacon of hope endures.
Sources
1. New Zealand’s Māori King Tuheitia dies aged 69
2. New Zealand’s Māori King dies after 18-year reign
