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Pa Marie Upokotini Ariki and the late New Zealand Maori King Kīngi Tūheitia Paki are frequent and valued visitors to the Cook Islands. Supplied/24083025
Cook Islands High Commissioner to New Zealand Kairangi Samuela paid tribute to Kingi Tuhaitia, recognising his significant contribution to strengthening relations between the Cook Islands and New Zealand.
Thousands of people are expected to descend on Turangawawai Marae in Ngaruawahia to pay their final respects to the reposed King Tuheitia Potao Te Werohero VII and attend his tango in New Zealand next Thursday.
Two days ago, Kīngi Tūheitia died at the age of 69 after being hospitalized for a period of time for heart surgery.
Pa Marie Ariki OBE issued a statement acknowledging King Touheitia’s death.
“His passing will have an impact on many people, and His Majesty the King and Papa Ariki shared many fond memories during his 18 years on the throne,” the statement said.
“At such a sad time, Queen Pa Ariki wishes to express her love to Makau Ariki, Whatumoana, Ngā Wai Hono i te Pō, Korotangi and the Mokopuna family.
“The King, Te Arikinui, sleeps in the strong hands of God. Live and prosper.”
Pa Ariki will travel with her sister Mahinarangi Dwane to Tūrangawaewae marae in Ngāruawāhia, where they will stay until King Tuheitia’s funeral next week.
In a tribute, Cook Islands High Commissioner to New Zealand Kairangi Samuela said: “We join others in mourning the loss of Kingi Tuhaitia, who was a profound celebration of the shared history and deep connections between New Zealand Māori, Cook Islands Māori people and the wider Pacific community.”
“His leadership, rooted in rich ancestral and cultural connections, has made a significant contribution to the special relationship between the Cook Islands and New Zealand.
“As we mark the 60th anniversary of New Zealand’s self-government (next year), we want to honour the legacy of King Tuhaitea Māori by committing to further deepen and strengthen our ties with the Māori community and with New Zealand more broadly.
“His vision and dedication continue to inspire us, and we will build on the foundations he built. May King Tuhetia rest in peace.”
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