Su’a William Sio
Pacific Island Affairs Spokesperson
MP for Mangere

3 May 2013

Pacific community farewells Parekura

Representatives of the Pacific last night acknowledged Parekura Horomia with a presentation of traditional gifts fitting of a high chief on behalf of the Pacific peoples of Aotearoa, says Su’a William Sio, Labour’s Spokesperson for Pacific Island Affairs.

“To acknowledge Parekura's service to the Pacific community, the group presented a Samoan fine mat or 'ie Toga' and a Tongan tapa or 'pulupulu', gifts normally only presented during funerals of high chiefs

“Parekura was well known to many in the Pacific community, from Invercargill to the Far North, from his time as head of the Community Employment Group, even before he became an MP in 1999.

“He was a strong advocate for all things Maori but was equally supportive of Pasifika as he knew both our peoples were experiencing similar challenges.

“He was a staunch supporter of our young people and believed Maori and Pacific youth had a critical role to play in the future of New Zealand.

“We convey our sincerest sympathies to Parekura Horomia's whanau and Ngati Porou on behalf of all the Pacific people he touched in his efforts to support our communities.

“The Pacific will lose a genuine chief of our communities,” said Su’a William Sio.

ENDS

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