Hon Tau Henare
National Party Associate Maori Affairs Spokesman

16 August 2006

Henare pays tribute to Dame Te Atairangikaahu

National MP Tau Henare has today paid tribute to the Maori Queen, Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu following her passing away last evening. "Many New Zealanders - Maori and non-Maori - will feel a deep sense of loss at the passing of such an iconic figure.

"Dame Te Atairangikaahu was a Maori patron - she represented all of us with dignity and grace and stood for everything good about Maoridom.

"The jubilee celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of Dame Te Atairangikaahu's coronation in May were a timely reminder of how deeply she is loved and respected by many.

"The National Party recognises Dame Atairangikaahu's outstanding leadership and commitment to a united New Zealand," says Mr Henare.

ENDS

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