As a mark of Aotearoa New Zealand’s deepest mourning and respect, Carterton District Council will join all other public buildings in lowering the New Zealand Flag is to half-mast to mark the death of Kiingi Tuuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII.

The Flag will be flown at half-mast until further notice once the lying in rest and tangihanga details are confirmed.

Carterton District Council expresses condolences to Kiingi Tuheitia’s whanau and all those who mourn his passing.

Hon. Ron Mark, Mayor of Carterton, said: On behalf of Carterton District Council and the Carterton community, I acknowledge the passing of Kiingi Tūheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII and extend our deepest condolences to his whānau and all those affected by his loss.

“We recognise the King’s many accomplishments and his role as a leader and rangatira during a time of significant change.

“His wise words during his final address at the Koroneihana resonate deeply:
“The key to moving forward successfully lies in trusting one another and supporting each other in our roles, rather than making things harder. Let’s embrace this unity from all corners, from all directions. What’s important is that we continue to listen and build together. We all need to be united in this.”
“Moe mai rā, e te Rangatira.”

His tangihanga will take place over seven days, starting Friday 30 August. The first two days are reserved for Waikato-Tainui uri [descendants].

Two pōwhiri will be held each day, at 8am and 2pm.

The nehu (burial) will occur on Thursday 6 Hepetema [September], where Kiingi Tūheitia will be taken to Taupiri Maunga, his final resting place.