The nation of New Zealand is in mourning today as news spreads of the passing of Māori King Tūheitia Pōtatau Te Wherowhero VII. He was 69 years old.
King Tūheitia died in hospital yesterday, surrounded by his wife and three children, after complications from heart surgery, just a week after celebrating his 18th koroneihana or coronation anniversary.
The news was announced by the Kiingitanga, the Māori king movement, on Friday morning local time.
His passing marks the end of an era for the Māori people, who have lost a champion and advocate for their culture, language, and rights.
“The death of Kiingi Tuheitia is a moment of great sadness for followers of Te Kiingitanga, Māoridom, and the entire nation. A chief who has passed to the great beyond. Rest in love,” Rahui Papa, a spokesman for the Kiingitanga said.
Born on April 21, 1955, Tūheitia was crowned as the Māori king in 2006, succeeding his mother, Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu.
During his reign, he worked tirelessly to promote social justice and cultural preservation. He was also a strong voice for Māori rights and interests and played a key role in promoting unity among the Māori people.
“In this storm we are strong. Together. The wind in our sails is kotahitanga [unity], and with that, we will reach our destination,” the late king said in a call for unity
Tributes are pouring in from across the country, with leaders and citizens alike paying their respects to the late king. Flags are flying at half-mast, and a national memorial service is being planned.
New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon paid tribute to the king on social media, stating: “Today, we mourn the loss of Kiingi Tuheitia. His unwavering commitment to his people and his tireless efforts to uphold the values and traditions of Kiingitanga have left an indelible mark on our nation.
“I will remember his dedication to Aotearoa New Zealand, his commitment to mokopuna, his passion for te ao Māori, and his vision for a future where all people are treated with dignity and respect. I will also remember the kindness he showed me personally whenever I met with him at Turangawaewae.”
Former Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern also offered her respects, saying: “You have been an advocate for Māori, for fairness, justice, and prosperity. You wanted children, young people, and those who have been left behind to have opportunities and hope.”
King Charles expressed his condolences, saying he and Queen Camilla were “profoundly saddened” by the news. “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,” said King Charles, adding in Māori, “Kua hinga te tōtara i Te Waonui a Tāne” (A mighty Totora tree has fallen), referencing a sacred and symbolic native New Zealand tree.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced, but it is expected that King Tūheitia will be laid to rest in the traditional Māori manner, with full honours and ceremonies.
New Zealand media reported that the king is expected to lie in state at Turangawaewae Marae, the seat of the Māori king, for five days, before being taken to rest on Taupiri Mountain.
His successor will be chosen by leaders within Kiingitanga, after the conclusion of his funeral rites.
