New Zealand’s Maori King Tuheitia dies at age 69

New Zealand’s Maori King Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII died peacefully on Friday at age 69, according to a statement released by his representatives.

WELLINGTON, New Zealand — New Zealand’s Maori King Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII died peacefully on Friday morning at age 69, according to a statement released by his representatives.

“The death of Kiingi Tuheitia is a moment of great sadness for followers of Te Kiingitanga, Maoridom and the entire nation,” spokesman Rahui Papa said on social media. He added that the king had been in hospital recovering from heart surgery just days after celebrating the 18th anniversary of his coronation.

Kiingi Tuheitia succeeded his mother, Queen Dame Te Atairangikaahu, in 2006.

The role of Maori monarch is not necessarily hereditary and the new leader will be appointed by heads of tribes associated with the King Movement on the day of Kiingi Tuheitia’s funeral but before he is buried, according to Radio New Zealand.

The Maori king is considered the paramount chief of several tribes, or iwi, but is not affiliated with all of them. The monarch’s role has no judicial or legal authority in New Zealand and is largely ceremonial.

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/new-zealand-maori-king-tuheitia-dies-age-69-rcna168931

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