Wellington, Aug 30 (UNI) New Zealand's Maori King, Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, died on Friday at age 69, days after marking the 18th anniversary of his leadership.
Tuheitia died in hospital while recovering from heart surgery, and he passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, according to local media reports.
Minister of Maori Development Tama Potaka said Tuheitia was not only a symbol of unity and resilience for Maori, but an advocate of all New Zealanders growing together.