Te Pakira Marae, Whakarewarewa has set the scene for the final goodbyes to Te Arawa leader Mauriora Kingi who died suddenly last Friday.
Te Mauri Rangituhaha Kingi, or better known as Mauriora for short, of Te Arawa and Tainui descent, was heavily involved with all things pertaining to Te Arawa and the Rotorua Lakes region.
A historian, advocator for the use of the Māori language and customs, he has left a strong legacy behind.
This year he was named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list and when he was interviewed about the honour, Mr Kingi said he loved his work and being able to share his knowledge and contributes to better understanding
Hundreds have gathered onto Whakarewarewa Marae in the past four days to acknowledge Mauriora Kingi and his family along with Tūhourangi-Ngāti Wāhiao.
He now rests within Whakarewarewa Village buried in a tomb.