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King Tuhetija.
photo: Provided/Waikato Tainui
New Zealand’s longest serving MP His long-time friend passed away, Kiingi Tuheitia, died on Friday morning.
Tributes have poured in from across the country and the Commonwealth. Speaking to Local Democracy Report, Rotorua Lakes MP Trevor Maxwell (Ngāti Rangiwewehi) described Keengi Tuhetia as a “beautiful and gentle soul”.
“I’m glad we went two weekends ago Celebrating his 18th Coronation Anniversary In Ngaluwahia.”
He said there were “many other people” taking part in the performance, including about 70 members of the Ngāti Rangiwewehi cultural group.
Waikato kapa haka group Taniwharau also celebrated its 50th anniversary.
Maxwell said it was through cultural performances and Kiingi Tuheitia’s mother, Te Arikinui Queen Lady Te Atairangikaahu, that their friendship grew.
One particularly strong memory was watching Taniwharau play at Te Matatini in 1981, with Tuheitia standing in the front row.
Maxwell said there has been a long-standing friendly competition between the two sides.
“They cried with joy when they won, and we cried when we lost,” he joked.
“He’s a great cultural performer.”
Maxwell said he knew Tuhaitia “was going to have heart surgery,” and while he prayed and hoped that the surgery went well, he was now faced with this sad news.
“My deepest condolences go out to his dear wife Te Atawhai and their children and to Mokopuna.
“I was very shocked to hear the news this morning (Friday). He really did care about our people and took on this role. He was a gentle and humble man.
“We are deeply saddened by his passing.”
Maxwell said the depth of their friendship was reflected in a visit from Tuheitia in 2007 after his wife, Atareta, died.
He has enjoyed recent reunions with the King and his family, including at a dinner ahead of the anniversary celebrations of the coronation.
“We can smile and recall the good old days.”
Maxwell said Te Arawa was connected to Tainui through Ngāti Pikiao (te ure tarewa), the “connection to Genegitanga”.
In 2006 Ngāti Pikiao made his first official visit to Rotorua to welcome the newly crowned Tuheitia.
Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell said the community was “deeply saddened” by the news.
The Rotorua community recognises Tuheitia’s leadership for Māori and the country as a whole.
“Kiingi Tuheitia is solution-focused and encourages unity during recent divisive times.
“His compassion and care for others will continue to be the legacy for which he is known and respected.”
– LDR is a local news organisation jointly funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
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