Tauranga farewells beloved kaumatua

Morehu Ngatoko Rahipere.

Hundreds of people have gathered at Huria Marae to farewell beloved Tauranga kaumatua Morehu Ngatoko Rahipere.

Morehu spent decades working for his people during his lifetime and has become widely regarded as an acknowledged leader, an exponent of tribal lore and narratives, a man of mana and a formidable orator.

He passed away at his home on Tuesday, aged 90.

His body was taken to Huria Marae on Wednesday, where he laid in state for today's funeral.

The funeral service is being held at Huria Marae.

In his lifetime Morehu has been awarded the highest honour in the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Maori.

He was instrumental in advancing the return of Mauao to the people and his expertise and knowledge in tikanga and kawa, has ensured the mountain is protected and its cultural integrity is maintained.

Read more here.

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