More than 3000 people, including the Maori King, have travelled to Northland's Otiria Marae to farewell prominent Ngapuhi and Ngati Hine elder Erima Henare.
Minister of Maori Development Te Ururoa Flavell speaks at the tangi. Photo: RNZ / Lois Williams
Mr Henare, who chaired the Maori Language Commission, died in Wellington on Thursday at the age of 62.
There has been a continuous stream of mourners arriving at the marae to pay their respects, including Minister of Maori Development Te Ururoa Flavell and a large contingent from Tainui led by King Tuheitia Paki.
Ngati Hine chair Waihoroi Shortland said Mr Henare's family knew their rangatira was held in high regard, especially for his efforts over the years to preserve Te Reo.
But, he said, they have been touched by tributes from around New Zealand and abroad, with whanau returning for the tangi.
"A lot have come home from Australia; a lot have come up from as far south as Invercargill - and, of course, from just about every point in the country."
The Waitangi Tribunal is expected at the marae this morning.
Mr Henare, who led the successful Ngapuhi sovereignty claim, will be buried on Monday after a funeral service at his home marae at Motatau.
More than 3000 people have gathered at Northland's Otiria Marae. Photo: RNZ / Lois Williams
Kuia mourn the passing of the Ngapuhi and Ngati Hine elder. Photo: RNZ / Lois Williams
Those paying their respects include whanau and dignitaries from around the country. Photo: RNZ / Lois Williams
