Photo: RNZ / Dan Cook
The Māori King, Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, has died.
A Kiingitanga spokesperson say he had been in hospital recovering from heart surgery, days after celebrating the anniversary of his Coronation.
The Kiingitanga has confirmed he passed away peacefully on Friday morning surrounded by family.
Follow all the updates and reactions on our live blog:
Kiingi Tuheitia had been in hospital recovering from heart surgery, Kiingitanga office says.
"I think the whole of the Pacific will mourn his passing," Pacific Islands Forum secretary-general, Baron Waqa, said.
A call for unity has gone out from this afternoon's powhiri at Waitangi, welcoming the Kiingitanga to the Treaty Grounds in a display of solidarity.
Kīngi Tūheitia is bringing with him the mauri of the Hui aa Motu in Ngāruawāhia.
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