WELLINGTON, New Zealand — Maori King Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII passed away peacefully on Friday morning at the age of 69, according to a statement from his representatives.
Spokesman Rahui Papa shared the news on social media, expressing profound sadness over the king’s death. He noted that Kiingi Tuheitia had been in the hospital recovering from heart surgery, only days after marking the 18th anniversary of his coronation.
Kiingi Tuheitia took on the role of Maori King in 2006, succeeding his mother, Queen Dame Te Atairangikaahu.
The position of Maori monarch is not strictly hereditary. The new king will be chosen by tribal leaders associated with the King Movement on the day of Kiingi Tuheitia’s funeral, but before his burial, according to Radio New Zealand.
While the Maori king is regarded as a paramount chief by several tribes or iwi, the role is largely ceremonial and does not carry judicial or legal authority in New Zealand.
The King Movement, or Kiingitanga, was founded in 1858 to unite New Zealand’s indigenous tribes under a single leader to bolster their resistance against colonialism.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon expressed the nation’s collective mourning, stating, “His unwavering commitment to his people and his tireless efforts to uphold the values and traditions of Kiingitanga have left an indelible mark on our nation.”
Former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern praised Kiingi Tuheitia’s advocacy for Maori, as well as his dedication to fairness, justice, and prosperity.
Local media reported that Kiingi Tuheitia’s body will be transported to his home meeting place, Turangawaewae marae, where his tangihanga, or funeral rites, are anticipated to continue for at least five days.
