New Zealand Māori King Kiingi Tuheitia Dies at 69

Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, the Māori King of New Zealand, passed away peacefully at the age of 69, surrounded by his family, after undergoing heart surgery. His death comes shortly after the celebration of his 18th anniversary on the throne, marking a significant loss for the Kiingitanga movement and the Māori community. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern led tributes, praising Tuheitia's unwavering commitment to Māori unity, culture, and the well-being of younger generations. Luxon highlighted the king's dedication to Aotearoa New Zealand and the values of dignity and respect, while Ardern remembered his advocacy for fairness and justice. The Māori king position, established in 1858, aims to unify Māori tribes, and Tuheitia had recently coordinated national unity talks amid changing government policies. His passing is seen as a profound moment of grief for the Māori people and the nation as a whole.