Waikato Regional Growth Summit Postponed Following Passing of Kiingi Tuuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII

Regional Development Minister Shane Jones announced the decision, expressing his condolences to the King’s whānau, the Kiingitanga movement, and Tainui.

The Waikato Regional Growth Summit, initially scheduled for next Tuesday in Hamilton, has been postponed following the passing of Kiingi Tuuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII. Regional Development Minister Shane Jones announced the decision, expressing his condolences to the King’s whānau, the Kiingitanga movement, and Tainui.

“I join the many voices already expressing sorrow at this news and offer my condolences and aroha to Kiingi Tuuheitia’s whānau, the Kiingitanga movement, and Tainui,” said Mr. Jones.

The summit was set to gather local leaders for important discussions on regional development in Waikato. However, Mr. Jones emphasized that the focus has now shifted to honoring the late Kiingi and preparing for his tangihanga.

“Out of respect for this, and to ensure that Tainui and the wider Māori community have their views heard at this important regional discussion, I have decided to reschedule the summit,” he added.

New details regarding the rescheduled Waikato Regional Growth Summit will be announced in due course.