September 7, 2024
No. 295
Legislator Chen Ying; Ambassador Joanne Ou, Taiwan Representative to New Zealand; and Director General Kendra Y. S. Chen of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Auckland attended the tangi of Maori monarch Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII and the anointment ceremony of his successor, Kuini Nga wai hono i te po, held in Hamilton from September 4 to 5. On behalf of the people and government of Taiwan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) expresses heartfelt congratulations to Queen Nga wai.
Ambassador Ou also extended felicitations through the monarch’s office on behalf of President Lai Ching-te and Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung and expressed the hope that Taiwan and New Zealand would continue to deepen cordial relations in all areas.
Kuini Nga wai hono i te po, the youngest daughter of King Tuhetia, was selected for the throne by a council of Maori chiefs. Aged 27, she is a young and capable leader who is beloved by her people. She previously visited Taiwan with her father. The governments of Taiwan and New Zealand both highly prioritize the rights and interests of indigenous peoples. In addition to congratulating the queen and the Maori community, Taiwan will build on the existing foundations with New Zealand to further strengthen bilateral cooperation and enhance the well-being of the peoples of both countries. (E)