Bau Island (file image) Photo: RNZ Pacific / Kelvin Anthony
Pacific traditional leaders, including the Maori king, are gathering on Bau Island this week to have conversations about their role in the contemporary world.
The meeting will be hosted by the Fijian Paramount Chief, Ratu Epenisa Cakobau, and will include traditional leaders from Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and Hawai'i.
Maori King, Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, has accepted an invitation to attend the meeting, where leaders are expected to discuss their role in a world impacted by climate change, environmental degradation, economic development, and globalisation.
The three-day meeting, 26-28 February, is a call for solidarity and collective action of traditional leaders, as they prepare for the Pacific Traditional Leaders Forum and Pacific Festival of Arts in Hawai'i in June, a statement from the Office of the Kiinitanga said.
Kiingitanga spokesman Ngira Simmonds said Kiingi Tuheitia shares the concerns of Pacific traditional leaders who are responsible for upholding the teachings of their ancestors and caring for current and future generations.
"It is a timely and important kaupapa (meeting) that the Kiingitanga is honoured to support."
Simmonds said Kiingi Tuheitia will take the light and the mauri (life force) from last month's Hui-aa-Motu at Turangawaewae to Fiji.
"On the evening of Hui-aa-Motu, Kiingi Tuheitia lit the flame of Kaapuri Ahi and invited Rangatira of te Iwi Maaori and Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa to light four other fires representing the four winds.
"The flame of unity burns brightly and will be shared in the korero (discussion) with Pacific Leaders to show that we're strong and prepared to lead the reawakening of Mana Motuhake."