The new Maori Queen, Nga Wai Hono i te Po, was anointed to replace her father, King Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, who passed away last week. The ceremony known as Te Whakawahinga took place during the funeral and burial of the late King. The new queen was not crowned, but a bible was placed on her head and sacred oils were used to bestow prestige and spiritual essence upon her. Thousands gathered at the meeting place of the King movement to bid farewell to the late King, followed by a traditional funeral. After the anointment of the new Queen, the late King’s coffin was taken to the Waikato River and paddled in traditional Maori waka to Taupiri Mountain for burial. This marks a significant moment for the Maori people as they face challenges to race relations in New Zealand. The new Queen’s role will be pivotal in addressing these challenges and leading her people during this time of transition.
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The coronation of the new Maori Queen as her father, the King, is laid to rest
