Ngaaruawaahia will be buzzing come Sunday 30 August, as Koroneihana (coronation) celebrations begin at Tuurangawaewae Marae.
The week-long celebrations recognise not only the legacy of the Kiingitanga (Maaori monarchy) movement; it also honours the reigning Maaori monarch, Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po.
The Kiingitanga movement was founded to foster peace and unite Maaori under one leader, protecting land and mana, in response to the large-scale land loss and inter-tribal fighting of the mid-1800s.
In 1858 the first Maaori king, Kiingi Pootatau Te Wherowhero, was anointed, establishing his headquarters at Te Huinga o ngaa Wai, at the junction of the Waikato and Waipaa Rivers.
The tradition of annual Koroneihana celebrations began during the reign of King Taawhiao, at Te Tiki o Te Ihingaarangi, in the King Country. In later years it was hosted by Waahi Paa, in Huntly, before being relocated by Princess Te Puea to its current venue. The legacy that began more than 160 years ago has continued and been led by eight successive monarchs.
The hui blends ceremony alongside cultural performances featuring poowhiri, whaikoorero, karakia, waiata and kapa haka. Iwi leaders attend and discuss issues impacting Maaori communities, and visitors include political leaders, international dignatories, and kaahui ariki (royal families) from the Pacific and across the world. This year, a delegation from Waikato District Council will attend on Friday 4 September alongside central government representatives.
Today, the leadership of Te Arikinui embodies the enduring strength of tradition, while Koroneihana provides an opportunity to reflect on and discuss the current political and cultural landscape impacting Maaori across Aotearoa and to reaffirm our commitment to the Kiingitanga.
Following the passing of her father, the late Kiingi Tuuheitia in 2024, last year’s Koroneihana provided further historical significance as this was the monarch’s first public announcement as Te Arikinui. During the Queen’s address, she highlighted the importance of unity and collective responsibility, urging iwi to remain steadfast in unity and compassion.
All visitors and the public are welcome to attend and engage in the weeklong celebrations. Teenaa taatou katoa.
Further details are yet to be released with specific timings and agenda of the celebration.
