‘Charismatic’ role model farewelled
New Zealand’s first Maori Miss New Zealand – a woman described as an ‘‘aunty to all of Rotorua’’ has been farewelled by her Te Arawa people.
The tangi for Rotorua District councillor Maureen Waaka, nee Kingi, was yesterday held at Te Papaiouru Marae at Ohinemutu, where tribute was paid to her life of achievements.
Maureen Te Rangi Rere I Waho Waaka, died at her home on Sunday night aged 70. She suffered a mild stroke two weeks ago while in Auckland, followed by another, more serious stroke last week.
Mrs Waaka, of Te Arawa/Ngati Whakaue and Tuwharetoa/Ngati Turumakina descent, was born in Ohinemutu and first rose to fame as the first Maori Miss New Zealand in 1962. She also served as a Rotorua District councillor for 18 years and was also a long-serving member of the Lakes District Health Board.
Mrs Waaka’s great nephew Wiremu Keepa said Mrs Waaka was an aunty to all of Rotorua.
‘‘She was a matriarch of Rotorua. She has done so much,’’ he said. ‘‘She was a matriarch of Rotorua.’’
‘‘I commend her for all the things she has done. A beautiful charismatic woman gone before her time.’’ Rotorua kapa haka expert Wetini Mitai-Ngatai said Mrs Waaka would be sorely missed not only by her whanau but by all of Te Arawa.
‘‘All of the people she came into contact with she really touched,’’ he said. ‘‘She was so strong and not afraid to take on any task for the betterment of her people and the wider community.’’
Rotorua District Council’s director of kaupapa Maori, Mauriora Kingi, said working with Mrs Waaka was amazing as she was always so supportive on Maori issues.
‘‘They were always at the forefront,’’ he said.
‘‘As a Te Arawa member we are so proud of her and what she has achieved. She was always here for our people and never self-gain.’’
Mr Kingi said she was a great role model for women.
‘‘She has left a huge legacy,’’ he said. ‘‘I hope people take heed to all the things she has done for the betterment of our people.’’
Mrs Waaka was laid to rest at Kauae Cemetery in Ngongotaha.
Laid to rest: