New Zealand’s Māori community is in mourning following the death of Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, who passed away on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at the age of 69. His death comes just days after marking his 18th year as Māori King, a role in which he was deeply committed to preserving and promoting Māori culture. The monarch died in the hospital after undergoing heart surgery.
Kiingi Tuheitia ascended to the throne in 2006, becoming the seventh Māori King in a lineage that dates back to the establishment of the Māori King Movement, or Kīngitanga, in the mid-19th century. This movement was founded to unite the Māori tribes under a single leader, providing a unified voice in negotiations with the colonial government. Over the years, the role of the Māori King has evolved, but it remains a crucial part of Māori identity and governance.
During his 18-year reign, Kiingi Tuheitia was a steadfast advocate for recognizing Māori rights and preserving Māori culture. He was pivotal in fostering relationships between the Māori and the broader New Zealand society, often emphasizing the need for mutual respect and understanding.
King Charles III, the constitutional head of state of New Zealand, and Queen Camilla expressed deep sadness over the passing of Tuheitia. Charles, reflecting on their long acquaintance, noted that Tuheitia was dedicated to building a strong future for both the Māori people and New Zealand, rooted in culture, traditions, and healing and that he pursued this mission with wisdom and compassion.
His reign was not without struggles. Kiingi Tuheitia faced several health issues in recent years, but he remained committed to his duties, a testament to his resilience and dedication to his people.
The celebration of his 18th anniversary as Māori King was a significant event attended by leaders and dignitaries from across New Zealand. The gathering highlighted his impact on his community and the respect he garnered from Māori and non-Māori alike.
Kiingi Tuheitia’s death has left a void in the Māori community, with many expressing deep sorrow at the loss of a leader who dedicated his life to serving his people. His legacy is of cultural pride, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of justice for the Māori people.
As the Māori community begins to grieve his loss, focus now shifts to the future of the Kīngitanga. A new Māori Queen, the deceased King’s daughter, was crowned on Thursday, September 5, stepping into her position during a period when New Zealand is confronting significant challenges to its race relations for the first time in 20 years.
A statement from her representatives indicated that Nga Wai Hono i te Po had been selected by Māori elders to succeed her father.
