A new era has begun in New Zealand as Ngā Wai hono i te pō has been crowned the eighth Māori monarch, following the passing of her father, Kiingi Tuheitia Pōtatau Te Wherowhero VII. The 27-year-old was selected as Kuini by a council of Māori chiefs during a ceremonial event on the North Island, marking a significant moment in Māori history.
Ngā Wai hono i te pō becomes only the second Māori queen, a role previously held by her grandmother, Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu. Her ascension to the throne comes as the nation mourns the loss of King Tuheitia, who passed away last Friday at the age of 69.
