In a historic event for the Maori people of New Zealand, tribal elders have elected a new queen, Ngā Wai Hono-i-te-Pōki, as reported by Lenta.
Daughter of Late King
The 27-year-old is the daughter of the late King Tūheitia Paki, who passed away on August 30. Despite her familial ties to the previous monarch, the new queen was chosen through a traditional selection process conducted by the council of Maori elders.
Two of Tūheitia Paki's sons also sought the throne.
Ngā Wai Hono-i-te-Pōki holds a master's degree in Maori culture from the University of Waikato in Hamilton, located on the North Island.
At the age of 19, she received a traditional moko tattoo on her chin as a gift from her father, symbolizing her connection to her heritage.
A Symbolic Position
In 2022, she traveled to London with her father to meet Prince Charles, now King Charles III. During this visit, she expressed her desire to honor her ancestors through a tour that also served as a reflection on the impacts of colonization in New Zealand.
"To be honest, my main wish is to return the land to the Maori," she stated during her time in the UK.
The Maori monarchy movement began in the 1850s, aiming to resist colonization and preserve Maori culture and land. While the Maori king does not wield political power, the position is considered a vital symbolic and spiritual role within the community.
Today, the Maori continue their fight for the return of their ancestral lands, making Ngā Wai Hono-i-te-Pōki's ascension particularly significant for the movement.
