News of the death of Kiingi Tūheitia has prompted an outpouring of love for the 69-year-old leader.
Kīngi Tuheitia Pōtatau Te Wherowhero VII spoke last week at Koroneihana celebrations which marked the 18th anniversary of his coronation before reportedly staying in hospital recovering from heart surgery.
A statement posted on the Kingitanga Facebook Page read: “The death of Kiingi Tūheitia is a moment of great sadness for followers of Te Kiingitanga, Māoridom and the entire nation."
He kura kua ngaro ki tua o Rangi-whakamoe-ariki. Moe mai raa - A chief who has passed to the great beyond. Rest in love
Ex-prime minister Jacinda Ardern honoured Tūheitia, writing: “You worked tirelessly on building understanding and knowledge of our shared history and in doing so, strengthening Aotearoa”.
Te Pāti Māori leader Rawiri Waiti shared a photo with the leader,captioned: “I love you and I will miss you King. Whoatu rā koe ki ō mātua tīpuna ki te pō”.
Miss National New Zealand finalist Rosemary Poi also paid tribute in a Facebook post, saying “Your humility, kindness, and cheeky spirit touched us all deeply”.
Your legacy of leadership and love will forever resonate within our souls. You were not just a king but a beacon of hope and unity for our country
The Monarch will lie in state at Turangawaewae Marae for five days before being laid to rest on Taupiri Mountain.
