Maaoridom has spent the week commemorating the eighth Maaori monarch Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po.
The traditions and customs of the Kiingitanga trace back to the mid 1850s when iwi came together on the shores of Lake Taupoo to discuss the idea of appointing a King.
The role was eventually offered to a rangatira of great mana, Pootatau Te Wherowhero who after initially declining, accepted the role. Today the home of Te Kiingitanga is Turangawaewae in Ngaaruawaahia and for many generations Waikato whaanau have devoted their entire lives to serving their monarch.
One of those people is Rahui Papa, spokesperson or maangai mo te Kiingitanga. He talks to Mihingarangi at Turangawaewae.
Kiingitangi spokesperson Rahui Papa at Tuurangawaewae Marae on 4 September 2024 for the tangihanga of Kiingi Tuheitia. Photo: RNZ / Marika Khabazi
