Commemorations are underway for Dame Tariana Turia, a trailblazing political leader and advocate for Māori rights, following her passing early this morning at the age of 80. Turia, co-founder of Te Pāti Māori and a long-serving MP, is being remembered for her immense contributions to Aotearoa New Zealand.
This afternoon, several hundred friends and whānau gathered at Pākaitore, where Turia was brought to lie at 1:40 p.m. From there, she will travel by waka to Putiki Marae and later return to Whangaehu Marae in Whanganui at 4 p.m.
A Legacy of Leadership and Advocacy
Tributes have flowed from across the political spectrum, highlighting Turia’s unwavering commitment to her people. Former Prime Minister Sir John Key describes her as a “trailblazing leader” with a wicked sense of humour, saying, “She will be sorely missed.”
Te Pāti Māori co-leaders Debbie Ngarewa-Packer and Rawiri Waititi praise Turia’s tireless efforts, calling her a matriarch and trailblazer whose legacy will endure. “She crossed the floor against all odds, ensuring our people’s voices were heard,” says Waititi.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Labour Leader Chris Hipkins also commemorate her contributions, with Hipkins referring to her as “the very definition of a wahine toa.” He adds that her work, particularly in health and Māori advocacy, will have lasting effects.
Achievements and Honours
Dame Tariana Turia’s political career began in 1996 as a Labour list MP following her role in the 79-day Moutua Gardens protest. She later served in a minority government with Key, championing issues like Māori health and the Whānau Ora initiative, a wellbeing agency she considered one of her proudest achievements. Turia retired in 2014 and was honoured as a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2015.
She was instrumental in the historic decision granting the Whanganui River legal personhood, a role she cherished as one of the most significant of her life.
Tributes from Fellow Leaders
Former Attorney-General Chris Finlayson recalls Turia as his favourite politician, saying, “I love her.” Act Party leader David Seymour remembers her as a principled and gracious leader. Meanwhile, New Zealand First leader Winston Peters calls her a passionate advocate for her community.
Barry Soper, Newstalk ZB’s senior political correspondent, highlights her determination for Māori betterment, saying, “She was a force to be reckoned with in Parliament.”
A Community in Mourning
Dame Tariana Turia’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void, especially among her whānau and iwi. Labour MP Willie Jackson emphasises her courage and commitment, adding, “We must never forget her courage.”
As the tangi continues, Aotearoa New Zealand honours the remarkable life of a woman who dedicated herself to the service of her people and her nation.