17 August 2006

Plunket offers deepest condolences for the passing of Maori Queen

E Te Atairangikaahu,
kua tāoruaoru anoo te ngākau o te tini, o te mano. Kua whakakotahi atu nā koe ki o nui. Haere atu rā, haere atu rā.

Te Ariki Dame Te Atairangikaahu was a great leader and her loss will be felt throughout the country says Plunket New Zealand President Kaye Crowther.

“She was a true leader of her people and a role model for us all. Her integrity and strong spirit were an inspiration.

“During her 40 years as Maori Queen, Dame Te Ata made a positive impact, not just for Maori, but for all New Zealanders.

“Our thoughts and sincerest condolences go out to her whanau.”

Plunket Chief Executive Paul Baigent said, “Dame Te Ata’s commitment to Maoridom will live on through the many community initiatives she supported, such as the Maori Women’s Welfare League and Kohanga Reo.

"We will be going to Turangawaewae Marae to pay our respects to this great leader," says Paul Baigent.

ENDS

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