Maori king back home and resting
The Maori King, Tuheitia, is on the mend at home after he was discharged from hospital at the weekend.
He was admitted to Waikato Hospital more than a week ago with diabetesrelated issues and discharged on Sunday.
His spokesman, Tukoroirangi Morgan, said he was now resting at home.
‘‘He is under strict instructions from his doctors to rest and get well,’’ said Morgan.
At the Koroneihana celebrations last month, Tuheitia revealed he had battled diabetes and cancer, but they were under control.
The jam-packed week ended with the 150-year anniversary of Hamilton. During the night he felt unwell and was taken to hospital the following day in some discomfort.
Get-well wishes poured in from around the world and Kingitanga faithful gath- ered at Turangawaewae Marae each morning and evening to pray for their king.
‘‘We thank all those people from around New Zealand and the world who have sent the king well wishes over the past week,’’ said Morgan.
‘‘He is truly humbled at the messages of sympathy and support he has received.’’
Doctors ran a series of tests and Tuheitia will continue his treatment at home and have his progress closely monitored.
‘‘We continue to have faith that he is receiving the best available medical treatment and remain positive about his overall prospects.
‘‘We ask again that the king’s privacy, and that of his family continue to be respected during this time,’’ Morgan said.
Maori King Tuheitia fell ill soon after the Coronation events at Turangawaewae Marae.