New Zealand’s Maori king dies

Tuhetia Paki pictured in 2006 as the brand new Maori king

Getty Images Tuhetia Paki pictured at his mother's funeral — Tuhetia Paki pictured in 2006 as the brand new Maori king

The Māori king in New Zealand – Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII – has died peacefully at age 69, surrounded by his spouse and three kids.

The Kiingitanga, or Māori king motion, introduced the information on social media on Friday morning native time (Thursday night GMT).

Spokesman Rahui Papa stated the king had been in hospital recovering from coronary heart surgical procedure, simply days after celebrating the 18th anniversary of his coronation.

“The loss of life of Kiingi Tuheitia is a second of nice disappointment for followers of Te Kiingitanga, Maaoridom and your complete nation,” the spokesman stated. “A chief who has handed to the good past. Rest in love.”

The king and his spouse Makau Ariki in April 2024

Getty Images The king and his wife sit on chairs beside one another — The king and his spouse Makau Ariki in April 2024

King Tuheitia’s successor will likely be chosen by leaders throughout the Kiingitanga and is probably not introduced till the top of his funeral rites, which usually final for at the very least three days.

New Zealand media reported the king was anticipated to lie in state at Turangawaewae Marae, the seat of the Māori king, for 5 days, then could be taken to relaxation on Taupiri Mountain.

The king was born Tūheitia Paki in 1955. He was topped in 2006 following the loss of life of his mom, Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu.

The Māori king place dates again to 1858.

New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon paid tribute to the king on social media, saying: “His unwavering dedication to his individuals and his tireless efforts to uphold the values and traditions of the Kiingitanga have left an indelible mark on our nation.”

In 2015, then-Prince Charles exchanged items with King Tuheitia throughout a New Zealand go to

AFP Then-Prince Charles and King Tuheitia laugh as they exchange a gift — In 2015, then-Prince Charles exchanged items with King Tuheitia throughout a New Zealand go to

The Māori king attended King Charles III’s coronation in May 2023 and privately met the British monarch earlier than the celebration.

The two additionally met throughout a go to by then Prince-Charles and his spouse Camilla to New Zealand in 2015.

In 2014, the king declined to satisfy Prince William and Princess Kate, then Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, on their tour to New Zealand as a result of he stated the 60 to 90 minutes allotted for the go to was not sufficient time.

Additional reporting by Kathryn Armstrong