Yesterday, Tainui also posted a tribute to Dame June Mariu, who died last week.
“We dedicate this waiata to Aunty June Mariu, a trailblazer who paved the way with unwavering courage and unshakeable grace. She dedicated her life to uplifting Maaori in education, health, sport and support for women.”
Beyond visits from politicians, the celebrations would include a national kawe mate, a mourning ceremony where relatives of the deceased visit another marae.
Tuesday would also see the attendance of Pacific leaders, including the King of Tonga, at Tūrangawaewae.
The Koroneihana was a celebration of being Māori and a celebration of coming together, Papa said.
“After the Covid-19 situation we didn’t have to sit together, to talk together, to eat together, to discuss together, but over the last couple of years we’ve had that opportunity back.
“So this will be the 18th year of Kīngi Tūheitia maintaining the position of the head of the Kīngitanga.”
Celebrations would begin with a tinge of sadness, as Friday marked 18 years since the death of the Māori Queen Dame Te Atairangikāhu, he said.
The anniversary would be marked by a dinner in her honour.
