New Zealand is in mourning following the passing of Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, the Māori king, at the age of 69. He died peacefully, surrounded by family, after undergoing heart surgery.
The Kiingitanga movement announced his death through a statement on social media on Friday morning local time. Spokesman Rahui Papa expressed deep sorrow for the loss, which he described as a moment of great sadness for followers of Te Kiingitanga, Māori culture, and the entire nation. “A chief has passed to the great beyond. Rest in love,” said Papa.
The next Māori king will be selected by leaders within the Kiingitanga, and the announcement may not occur until the completion of the traditional funeral rites, which usually last three days. Reports indicate that the king is set to lie in state at Turangawaewae Marae, the traditional seat of the Māori king, for five days before his burial on Taupiri Mountain.
Born Tūheitia Paki in 1955, he ascended to the throne in 2006 following the death of his mother, Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu. The Māori kingship has roots dating back to 1858.
New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon paid tribute to the late king, praising his unwavering dedication to his people and his tireless efforts to preserve the values and traditions of the Kiingitanga, which have significantly impacted the nation.
In May 2023, King Tuheitia attended the coronation of King Charles III and met privately with the British monarch prior to the event. Their historical connections include a meeting during a visit from then-Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall in 2015. Notably, in 2014, the king declined to meet with Prince William and Princess Kate, emphasizing that the limited time allocated for the visit was insufficient for meaningful engagement.
