Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po has extended her aroha to the families who have lost loved ones in the floods and landslips across the North Island this week.

The message was delivered during Te Iwi Morehu commemorations at Rātana Pā, today.

“Te Arikinui is deeply saddened by the loss of life and widespread damage from the climate related disaster and extends her deepest aroha to the relatives of the victims,” Kiingitanga spokesman Rahui Papa said.

Te Arikinui also acknowledged the courage and care of first responders, emergency services and marae who provided support during the natural disaster.

“This selfless behaviour is consistent with our values as a nation, particularly our desire to manaaki to those in need.”

Mr Papa said the crisis underlined the importance of working in partnership to solve social, environmental and economic problems.

“Te Arikinui is conscious of the need to address the major issues affecting our climate and our way of life, which are becoming more urgent and pressing for te taiao and communities across the motu.”

Mr Papa said the Kiingitanga would facilitate a conversation on te taiao later this year.

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