MANA leader honours former Governor General Sir Paul Reeves

Yesterday Hone Harawira, MP for Tai Tokerau and Leader of the MANA Movement, attended the final service at the Holy Sepulchre church in Auckland for Sir Paul Reeves, a man Mr Harawira called a “National Statesman”.

Sir Paul Reeves was New Zealand’s first Maori Governor General and served in the post from 1985-1990.

“I first met Sir Paul when he was ordained Bishop of Auckland, and I was impressed by his humility and his genuine love for people” said Harawira.

“He was a humble man but he went on to become Archbishop and eventually Governor General. “Sir Paul was also a peace campaigner, a humanitarian and a man of honour” said Harawira who added that Sir Paul would also be remembered for his stand against racism and social injustice and as a man who led by moral persuasion rather than direction.

Harawira said he also felt honoured to take part in the final service at the Holy Sepuchre.

“It’s a privilege to be asked to take part in a service for a person who dedicated his life to representing his people and his country with such distinction”

Following the service, Mr Harawira travelled to Turangawaewae for the Maori King’s Coronation celebrations.

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