PRESS RELEASE
Wed 15 August 2006
For Immediate Release

Tribute to Dame Te Arikinui Te Atairangikahu

Otara’s communities have lost a beloved leader and friend in the passing of Dame Te Arikinui Te Atairangikahu who will be remembered for her warmth, dignity and goodwill for our people, says Otara’s Manukau City Councillor Su’a William Sio.

“The Otara community mourn her passing. Her Majesty often visited Otara to celebrate the successes of our little community and always supported the Maori Wardens movement which now includes wardens from all the Pacific communities.”

“On behalf of Otara, I express our deepest condolences to Her Majesty’s family, to Tainui and to all of Maoridom at this time.”

The Maori Queen’s passing is also keenly felt by Pacific people here who regarded her as a cherished friend and supporter of Pacific Peoples.

“What many may not realize,” says Councillor Sio, “is that Her Highness Te Arikinui enjoyed a special and close association with Pacific communities. She was often present at many key events and milestones in New Zealand’s Pacific communities here and abroad.”

ENDS