The future of the Kīngitanga has been a central theme of the 160th anniversary of the Māori King movement in Ngaruawahia held this weekend.
A group performs a haka for King Tuheitia at Turangawaewae Marae. Photo: RNZ / John Boynton
Supporters of the movement say it has always brought iwi together and will continue to do so.
The Kīngitanga began in 1858 and was first led by King Potatau Te Wherowhero.
It was a way of uniting Māori amid land confiscations and European settlement.
King Tuheitia at the 160th anniversary of the Māori King movement in Ngaruawahia. Photo: RNZ / John Boynton
King Tuheitia is the the seventh leader of the Māori political movement.
He told the crowds gathered at Turangawaewae Marae that it was vital for the Kīngitanga to continue to challenge the government and Crown on issues that were important to Māori.
"I'm determined, strong and capable of doing what must be done for the Kīngitanga to still be here in the next 160 years and beyond."
Shane Te Ruki, from the neighbouring iwi Ngāti Maniapoto, said the Kīngitanga would always have a political will and place in Māoridom.
Hundreds of people gathered today along the banks of the Waikato River for a flotilla of waka commemorating the anniversary.
There are plans to hold other commemorations during the year.