19 March 2012

Media statement: For immediate release

‘He kura i tangihia, he maimai aroha.’

Kiingi Tuheitia extends condolences to Royal Family and people of Tonga

Begins

Kiingi Tuheitia has extended his personal condolences, and those of the Kaahui Ariki, to Queen Mataaho, Crown Prince Tupouto’a Lavaka, the Royal Family and the people of Tonga wherever in the world they may be, on the announcement today of the shock passing of King Tupou V.

“We are all shocked and saddened at the death of King Tupou V and our hearts and thoughts go out to all the people of Tonga at this sensitive time,’ said Kiingi Tuheitia.

“The linkages between our two Royal Houses were first established by Princess Te Puea, when she forged a close relationship with Queen Salote. Te Arikinui was also a regular visitor to Tonga and the Royal House of Tonga have likewise been regular visitors to the Kiingitanga.”

Kiingi Tuheitia was a royal guest at the coronation of Tupou V in 2008.

In fact both monarchs ascended to their thrones within months of each other after the death of their respective parents –Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu in August 2006 and King Tupou IV in September of that year.

King Tupou V attended Kiingi Tuheitia’s first Koroneihana celebrations at Tuurangawawae Marae and since then have remained close friends and confidants.

The two monarchs shared some time together during celebrations held to mark the 85th birthday of Queen Mataaho in Tonga only just last year.

Kiingi Tuheitia will attend the state funeral of King Tupou V with family when details of the service have been confirmed.

Moe mai e te kura o Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa. E reia e te roimata.

ENDS

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