New Zealand's Maori Queen, Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po, met King Charles III at Buckingham Palace on Thursday for what was described as a 'heartfelt' discussion. The 29-year-old monarch, who ascended the throne in 2024 following the death of her father, Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, was making her first official visit to the UK as Queen.
According to a spokesperson for the Kiingitanga (the Maori monarchy), the talks covered reflections on the late Maori King and the future of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi). Signed in 1840 between over 500 Maori chiefs and the British Crown, the treaty is considered the foundation of Maori rights in New Zealand. The two leaders also discussed plans for the bicentenary of the treaty in 2040.
Earlier in the week, the Maori Queen met Prince William at Windsor Castle. The Prince of Wales posted on Instagram that it was 'a pleasure to meet with the Queen'. Their discussion touched on global issues, including environmental challenges and Indigenous knowledge systems. Te Arikinui affirmed her belief in the power of Indigenous knowledge and intergenerational stewardship to address environmental and social challenges.
The Maori Queen's visit to London continues a historic relationship between the Kiingitanga and the British royal family. She previously met the then Prince Charles in 2022. Her grandmother, Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu, was the first Maori Queen. The Maori monarchy, established in the 19th century, is largely ceremonial but holds significant influence as the monarch is regarded as the paramount chief of several tribes.
Te Arikinui is in London for the 50th anniversary celebrations of The King's Trust, founded by King Charles in 1976. She is accompanied by four young New Zealand entrepreneurs whose businesses have been supported by The King's Trust Aotearoa New Zealand.
