New Maori Queen Ascends Amidst Reviving Race Relations in New Zealand

A new Maori Queen, Nga Wai Hono i te Po, has been anointed amidst New Zealand's race relation challenges. Succeeding her father, King Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, she undertakes a ceremonial role with significant cultural responsibility. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon supports her leadership, highlighting ongoing socio-political issues in the country.

Nga Wai Hono i te Po has been anointed as the new Maori Queen on Thursday, succeeding her father, King Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, who passed away last week. The anointing ceremony, known as Te Whakawahinga, took place in front of thousands attending the tangihanga of the late King, underscoring the cultural significance of the event.

The new queen, not formally crowned but bestowed with a Bible and sacred oils, will serve a largely ceremonial role as the paramount chief of several Maori tribes, without judicial or legal authority. The 27-year-old Queen holds a Master of Arts in Tikanga Maori and has been active on various boards, including the Te Kohanga Reo National Trust.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon acknowledged her appointment, emphasizing the importance of her leadership in a time of evolving race relations. The new administration's policies have sparked debates over Maori language use and Indigenous rights, echoing sentiments King Tuheitia expressed in January about the significance of Indigenous voices.

(With inputs from agencies.)