Don Brash MP National Party Leader
15 August 2006
Deep sadness over death of Maori Queen
National Party Leader Don Brash says it is with deep sadness that he learnt tonight of the death of the Maori Queen, Te
Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu.
"Dame Te Atairangikaahu's immense popularity was underlined in May this year when thousands upon thousands joined
celebrations for the 40th anniversary of her coronation.
"During her 40-year reign she received a host of national and international honours, and presided over substantial gains
for Maori, including significant progress on the settlement of outstanding Treaty of Waitangi claims.
"My colleagues and I will be among many thousands of New Zealanders who will visit Turangawaewae Marae in the coming
days to pay our respects to a great New Zealander," says Dr Brash.
Meanwhile, National Party Deputy Leader and Maori Affairs spokesman Gerry Brownlee says Dame Te Atairangikaahu conducted
herself with the utmost dignity and earned great respect.
"I wish to convey my deepest sympathies to Dame Te Atairangikaahu's family. I note that she is the longest serving Maori
monarch and she will be deeply missed."
ENDS