Nga Wai Hono i te po Paki, at just 27 years old, has been anointed as New Zealand’s second-ever Maori Queen. She succeeds her late father, King Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, who recently passed away. Her ascension marks a significant moment for the Maori people.
The coronation ceremony, known as Te Whakawahinga, took place at Tuurangawaewae, a central gathering place for the King movement. Thousands attended to pay their respects to the deceased king and witness the transition of leadership.
During the ceremony, a sacred Bible was placed on Nga Wai’s head, and sacred oils were used to endow her with prestige, power, and spiritual essence. She wore traditional Maori attire, including a fern leaf headdress, a light brown cloak, and a carved whalebone necklace, all symbolizing her new role.
Nga Wai is the youngest child and only daughter of King Tuheitia and Queen Te Atawhai Makau Ariki. She has a Master of Arts in Tikanga, which focuses on Maori societal lore. Her academic background and dedication to the Maori language are seen as assets in her new role.
The decision to appoint her as queen was made by the Kiingitanga advisory council, a group of 12 elders from various Maori tribes. Despite having two older brothers, Nga Wai was chosen as the successor, signifying a “new dawn” for the Maori monarchy.
She is the eighth Maori monarch and the second queen. Her grandmother, Queen Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu, was the first queen and held the position for four decades until her death in 2006.
In addition to her academic and cultural achievements, Nga Wai has a traditional chin tattoo, known as “moko kauae,” which she received at age 19. This tattoo honors her father and his dedication to his role as king.
The recent funeral of the late king and the coronation of his daughter highlight the continuity of the Maori monarchy and its deep cultural significance. Nga Wai’s new role as queen carries with it the weight of her family’s legacy and the hopes of her people.
Sekar Rao 
Nisham Ismail