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Regional | King Tuheitia

King Tuheitia recovering from kidney transplant

King Tuheitia is expected to be moved from Intensive Care to a ward at Auckland Hospital later today.

The Māori King’s private secretary Te Rangihiroa Whakaruru says confidence is high but it’s too early to say if the transplant the Māori King underwent last night was a complete success.

The King’s son Korotangi is reportedly recovering well and was moved to a ward last night.

Mr Whakaruru says, the King has been conscious and responding well to the medical team since the operation and they have kept a very close eye on him.

He says “the last thing we want is for something to happen from something we didn’t see and so they’ve been very, very careful, so we’ve got nothing better to do than let them do their job and they’re doing just that.”

Earlier this week Mr Whakaruru revealed the seriousness of the King’s health condition to Te Kāea and messages of support have been flowing for the King and his family from across the country.

Te Puea Marae in South Auckland held a special karakia last night where many gathered to show their support, including the King’s eldest son Whatumoana.

For more on this developing story tune in to Te Kāea tonight at 5:30pm.