Maori Queen dies after 40 years on the throne

Dame Te Arikinui died today at home near Hamilton, New Zealand after a long battle with failing health.

Dame Te Arikinui was the Maori Queen for 40 years, the longest reign of any Maori monarch since the movement began in the 1850s.

The Maori monarch is a highly respected symbol in New Zealand, but plays no constitutional role.

The Maori movement began in the early 1850‘s with the aim to unite the Maori people and to act as a counterbalance to the British colonisation of New Zealand.

Helen Clark , Prime Minister of New Zealand expressed in a statement released by the government her “deep sadness at the passing of the Maori Queen.

“A mighty kauri has fallen. With quiet dignity, humility, humour, and warmth, Dame Te Arikinui achieved a tremendous amount for Maoridom and New Zealand,” Helen Clark said.

“Dame Te Ata was at the forefront of many initiatives, from Maori language revitalisation to Maori education, welfare, and the promotion of Maori culture, arts, and sport.

“In times of great change in society and in Maoridom, Dame Te Arikinui has provided both continuity and outstanding leadership.”

Early this year, Prince Charles sent Dame Te Arikinui, a message where he said: “The 40 years of the leadership, courage and stability you have so far given to the people of Aotearoa New Zealand and indeed to the wider world ... is an immeasurable treasure.”

A successor is yet to be named, but if tradition is followed, then one of Dame Te Arikinui children will follow her as monarch.