Koroneihana 2026: Iwi and Pacific Leaders Honour Legacy and Solidarity at Tūrangawaewae

On Friday, 4 September 2026, the third day of Koroneihana celebrations at Tūrangawaewae marae served as a poignant nexus for both national mourning and international solidarity. As reported by RNZ, the day was defined by the Kawe Mate ceremony, where hundreds of whānau carried photographs of formidable leaders lost over the past year. Tributes were paid to figures such as Tā Hirini Moko Mead, Tā Whatarangi Winiata, and Te Kepa Takataka-o-Rangi Stirling. A significant contingent from Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ngā Tapuwae honoured Te Kepa, with chair Scott Gemmell recalling his belief that te reo Māori acts as a spiritual vessel connecting the people to their ancestors. Parallel to these tributes, the marae became a vibrant display of Pacific unity. Delegates from across the Moana arrived to honour the Māori Queen, Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po. Kiingitanga spokesperson Rahui Papa emphasized that these relationships are essential for future collaboration, noting that many Pacific families now call Aotearoa home. The presence of high-ranking dignitaries, including Tonga’s Princess Lātūfuipeka and Fiji’s Ratu Tevita Kapaiwai Lutunauga Uluilakeba Mara of Lau Province, underscored the depth of these ties. Symbolising this bond, Vai Filimoehala presented the Queen with a handcrafted tapa featuring the royal shield from her village in Tonga. Political and community voices bridged the themes of legacy and contemporary struggle. Ngāti Kahungunu chair Bayden Barber addressed government challenges, while Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick and candidate Michel Mulipola highlighted the shared interests of Māori and Pasifika communities. Mulipola noted that what benefits Māori inherently benefits Tangata Moana. Looking toward the future, the day focused heavily on succession. Ngāti Awa representative Pouroto Ngaropo and Dr. Wayne Ngata reflected on the urgency of preparing rangatahi to lead. This was evidenced by the participation of Pasifika youth, including performer Rayna Folau and kaiako Petuleka Malelei from Pacific Advance Secondary School. As the day concluded, the gathered iwi and Pacific delegates reaffirmed a commitment to carrying forward the values of their ancestors while building a unified future in the South Pacific.