KING Charles has said he is “profoundly sad” to learn of the passing of New Zealand’s Maori King who died aged 69.
Kiingi Tuheitia died surrounded by his wife and three children on Thursday just days after celebrating 18 years on the throne.
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An official statement said: “Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII has died peacefully … accompanied by his wife Makau Ariki and their children Whatumoana, Korotangi and Ngawai Hono I Te Po.”
He had been in hospital recovering from heart surgery when he died.
A statement from King Charles said: “My wife and I were profoundly saddened to learn of the death of Kiingi Tuheitia.
“I had the greatest pleasure of knowing Kiingi Tuheitia for decades. He was deeply committed to forging a strong future for Māori and Aotearoa New Zealand founded upon culture, traditions and healing, which he carried out with wisdom and compassion.”
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