Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po has delivered a powerful vision for the future of Aotearoa, calling for a collective transition from the legacy of Raupatu to a new era of Rauora.
Addressing thousands of national and international guests at Tūrangawaewae Marae today for her second Koroneihana address, the Māori Queen centered her message on the theme: “Uri o te Raupatu. Toa o te Rauora.”
From Grievance to Hope
Kiingitanga spokesperson Rukumoana Schaafhausen noted that the address signaled a profound shift from historical grievance toward a future defined by hope and security. Having grown up in the shadow of Raupatu, Te Arikinui believes that prioritizing Rauora will ensure future generations inherit a world where they are healthy, secure, and deeply connected to their reo and whakapapa.
“Māori will never forget the past, but through Rauora and revival we can shift to a more empowered future for the benefit of all of Aotearoa,” Te Arikinui stated, emphasizing that while confiscation gravely impacted Māori, it does not dictate the potential of their mokopuna.
Empowering the Next Generation
Spokesperson Rahui Papa described the vision as an inspiring challenge to all New Zealanders. During her speech, Te Arikinui stressed the necessity of preparing rangatahi not just to participate in the future, but to actively shape and lead it.
The call to action is clear: it is time to move from poverty to prosperity and deliberately change the trajectory for those who follow.