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National | King Tuheitia

Māori King prepares to host Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall

King Tuheitia is preparing to host the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall at Tūrangawaewae Marae in Ngāruawāhia next month.

Fixing and preparation are what these locals are doing to receive their distinguished guests from the Royal Household of England.

Waikato-Tainui Spokesperson Rāhui Papa says, “It is a really important occasion, he is the current heir, who may one day be King, the first born son of Queen Elizabeth.”

A proposed welcome for Prince William and the Duchess of York to Tūrangawaewae Marae was cancelled due to only 90 minutes being allocated to welcome the royals. Two hours has been allowed for this visit.

Kīngitanga Spokesperson Tukuroirangi Morgan says, “We've been collaborating with the office of the Prince of Wales, the governor General and the Prime Minister for a while, which was how the time was extended.”

Papa also adds, “We don't want to in any way rush his time us, but allow ourselves to give him the due welcome and hospitality he deserves, as modeled to us by our elders.”

Rangi Whakaruru, Private Secretary of the Māori King says, “The royal gathering will be for a few hours, it's an open day for our region allowing for photo opportunities and handshakes at the marae.”

Prince Charles last visited the marae 21 years ago, and the Māori King is over the moon that he will return.

On the 8th of November, the doors will open and the Prince of Wales and his wife, will be welcomed on the marae by the Māori King, tribal leaders, Waikato officials and the community.