New Zealand is mourning the loss of Maori King, Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, who passed away at the age of 69 following complications from heart surgery. His death was confirmed in the early hours of Friday, August 30, just after celebrating his 18th year on the throne.
The announcement of King Tuheitia’s passing was met with deep sadness across the country. A statement from his family revealed that he “died peacefully, surrounded by his wife, Makau Ariki, and their children, Whatumoana, Korotangi, and Ngawai Hono I Te Po.” Despite undergoing heart surgery, King Tuheitia’s recovery did not go as expected, a reality shared by the Kiingitanga’s chief of staff, Ngira Simmonds, who expressed the sorrow felt by all who were hopeful for his recovery.
King Tuheitia became the Maori King in 2006, succeeding his mother, Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu, after her passing. His mother was the longest-serving Maori monarch, and her legacy set a significant precedent for his reign. During his 18 years as king, Tuheitia worked tirelessly to uphold and strengthen the values and traditions of the Kiingitanga movement, a position that holds both cultural and spiritual significance within the Maori community.
Throughout his reign, King Tuheitia was known for his dedication to the Maori people and their culture. He focused on issues such as health, education, and the economic well-being of the Maori, advocating for their rights and ensuring that Maori traditions were respected and preserved in a rapidly changing world. His leadership extended beyond his immediate community as he fostered relationships with leaders from across New Zealand and the world, promoting understanding and cooperation.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon was among the first to offer condolences, leading the nation in mourning. Flags on government and public buildings were lowered to half-mast in honor of the king. Luxon, who was in Tonga attending the Pacific Islands Forum, remarked, “Today, we mourn the loss of a great leader. King Tuheitia’s unwavering commitment to his people and his tireless efforts to uphold the values and traditions of the Kiingitanga have left an indelible mark on our nation. His dedication to Aotearoa New Zealand, his passion for the wellbeing of young people, and his vision for a future grounded in dignity and respect for all will be long remembered.”
The legacy of King Tuheitia extends beyond New Zealand’s borders. King Charles III of the United Kingdom, who is New Zealand’s formal head of state, expressed his shock and sorrow upon hearing the news. King Charles, who had known King Tuheitia for many years, said in a heartfelt statement, “My wife and I were profoundly saddened to learn of the death of Kiingi Tuheitia. I had the greatest pleasure of knowing him for decades, and his deep commitment to forging a strong future for the Maori and Aotearoa New Zealand, founded upon culture, traditions, and healing, was evident in everything he did. His wisdom and compassion were a guiding light, and he will be greatly missed.”
As the nation grieves, preparations are underway for King Tuheitia’s funeral, which is expected to take place next Thursday. According to New Zealand media reports, he will be buried alongside his mother, Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu, and other previous Maori kings on the sacred Taupiri Mountain. This mountain holds immense cultural significance as the traditional burial ground for Maori royalty, symbolizing the deep connection between the Maori kingship and the land.
The passing of King Tuheitia marks the end of an era for the Maori people and the Kiingitanga movement. His leadership was characterized by a deep respect for Maori customs and a commitment to the welfare of his people. As New Zealand reflects on his life and contributions, there is a shared sense of loss and gratitude for a leader who dedicated his life to his people, culture, and nation.
