New Zealand’s Māori community is mourning the loss of their revered leader, King Tuheitia Paki, who passed away at the age of 69. King Tuheitia, the seventh leader of the Kīngitanga (Māori King Movement), served as a unifying figure for the Māori people and played a significant role in advocating for their rights and preserving their culture.

A Legacy of Leadership

King Tuheitia was born on April 21, 1955, in Huntly, New Zealand, to King Korokī Mahuta and Queen Te Atairangikaahu. He was raised in a royal family steeped in the traditions of the Kīngitanga. His mother, Queen Te Atairangikaahu, was the longest-serving Māori monarch, reigning for 40 years until her death in 2006. Following her passing, Tuheitia was chosen to succeed her as the King, a role he held with dignity and respect for 17 years.During his reign, King Tuheitia was known for his efforts to strengthen the unity of the Māori people and advocate for their interests at the national and international levels. He worked tirelessly to address issues such as land rights, economic development, and the preservation of the Māori language and culture. His leadership extended beyond the Māori community, as he engaged with the New Zealand government and other indigenous leaders worldwide to promote the rights and well-being of indigenous peoples.

Health Struggles and Final Days

King Tuheitia’s health had been a concern in recent years. He faced several health challenges, including a battle with diabetes, which led to the amputation of his leg in 2013. Despite these struggles, he continued to fulfill his duties as the Māori King, often attending significant cultural and political events, though his public appearances became less frequent.In the weeks leading up to his death, King Tuheitia’s health reportedly deteriorated, leading to widespread concern among his followers and the broader New Zealand community. His passing marks the end of an era for the Kīngitanga and the Māori people, leaving a void in the leadership of the Māori community.

The Impact of King Tuheitia’s Reign

King Tuheitia’s reign is widely regarded as a period of significant progress for the Māori community. He was a vocal advocate for the Treaty of Waitangi settlements, which sought to address historical grievances and injustices faced by the Māori people. Under his leadership, several iwi successfully negotiated settlements with the New Zealand government, leading to the return of land and resources to Māori ownership.King Tuheitia also championed education and the revitalization of the Māori language, te reo Māori. He supported initiatives to integrate te reo Māori into schools and public life, contributing to a resurgence in the use of the language among younger generations. His commitment to preserving Māori culture and identity resonated deeply with his people, earning him widespread respect and admiration.

The Future of the Kīngitanga

The passing of King Tuheitia raises questions about the future of the Kīngitanga and the succession of the Māori monarchy. Traditionally, the role of the Māori King or Queen is hereditary, passing from parent to child. King Tuheitia is survived by his wife, Makau Ariki Atawhai, and their three children—Whatumoana, Korotangi, and Ngawai Hono I Te Po.

Speculation about King Tuheitia’s successor has already begun, with his eldest son, Whatumoana Paki, considered the most likely candidate to assume the role. However, the decision will ultimately be made by the Kīngitanga Council, a group of elders and leaders from various iwi who will convene to choose the next leader.National Mourning and TributesAs news of King Tuheitia’s death spread, tributes poured in from across New Zealand and beyond. Prime Minister Chris Hipkins expressed his condolences, highlighting King Tuheitia’s contributions to the Māori community and New Zealand as a whole. He acknowledged the King’s role in fostering reconciliation and building bridges between Māori and non-Māori communities.Māori leaders and iwi representatives also paid tribute to King Tuheitia, remembering him as a wise and compassionate leader who dedicated his life to serving his people. The Māori community will observe a period of mourning, during which time the King will lie in state at Tūrangawaewae Marae in Ngaruawahia, the spiritual home of the Kīngitanga.

Conclusion

The death of King Tuheitia marks a significant moment in New Zealand’s history. As the nation mourns the loss of a beloved leader, the Māori community reflects on his legacy and the enduring impact of his leadership. While the future of the Kīngitanga remains uncertain, King Tuheitia’s contributions to the advancement and preservation of Māori culture and rights will be remembered for generations to come.

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Written by: Enyoghasi Ngozi pricillia