King Tuheitia

Māori Monarchs: When One King Falls, Another Rises—With War Canoes!

New Zealand bids a heartfelt farewell to King Tuheitia as a new Māori monarch is crowned. Find out who takes the throne in this emotional ceremony!

Today, in a beautiful and emotional ceremony, New Zealand bid farewell to Kīngi Tuheitia Pōtatau Te Wherowhero VII, the revered Māori King who passed away at 69. Thousands of mourners flocked to Ngāruawāhia, as the majestic sight of carved war canoes formed a flotilla to carry the fallen monarch to his final resting place. With deep respect and love, the Māori community and beyond united to remember a king who dedicated his life to preserving the Māori culture and advocating for their rights.

As the nation grieved, a new chapter began for the Kīngitanga. The youngest child of the late King Tuheitia, Te Puhi Ariki Ngawai Hono i te Po Paki, was crowned the new Māori Queen—making history as only the second woman to ever hold such an esteemed title. The ceremony was filled with tradition, displaying the vibrancy of Māori culture as she took her oath, emphasizing the continuity and resilience of the Kīngitanga in the face of loss. It was a day of tears and triumph, showcasing the strength of community and cultural identity.

This new dawn for the Kīngitanga signifies the importance of both tradition and modernity within the Māori culture. As the late King is laid to rest, the teachings and wisdom he imparted will live on through his successor, who carries the generational torch. The new Māori Queen will not only uphold her father’s legacy but also inspire future leaders to navigate the complexities of contemporary challenges while embracing their rich heritage.

In a fun twist of fate, the War Canoes used for the funeral procession have been likened to a floating royal carriage—minus the fancy horses! They symbolize the deep respect and connection to tradition that the Māori people cherish, offering a magical entrance for their departed King. Interestingly, the first Māori Queen, who was Tuheitia's grandmother, set a precedent for the representation of women in leadership roles within the Kīngitanga, paving the way for today’s new monarch. As New Zealand reflects on this momentous occasion, it’s clear that with every end comes a new beginning—especially in the realm of Māori leadership and culture!