New Zealand's Maori King Tuheitia dies aged 69

WELLINGTON (Reuters) - New Zealand's Maori King Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII died peacefully on Friday morning at age 69, according to a statement released by his representatives.

"The death of Kiingi Tuheitia is a moment of great sadness for followers of Te Kiingitanga, Maoridom and the entire nation," spokesman Rahui Papa said on social media. He added the King had been in hospital recovering from heart surgery just days after celebrating the 18th anniversary of his coronation.

Kiingi Tuheitia succeeded his mother, Queen Dame Te Atairangikaahu, in 2006.

The role of Maori monarch is not necessarily hereditary and the new leader will be appointed by heads of tribes associated with the King Movement on the day of Kiingi Tuheitia's funeral but before he is buried, according to Radio New Zealand.

The Maori King is considered the paramount chief of several tribes, or iwi, but is not affiliated with all of them. The monarch's role has no judicial or legal authority in New Zealand and is largely ceremonial.

The King Movement, or Kiingitanga, originated in 1858 in an attempt to unite the indigenous tribes of New Zealand under a single leader to strengthen their resistance to colonialism.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said in a statement that the country would mourn the loss of Kiingi Tuheitia.

"His unwavering commitment to his people and his tireless efforts to uphold the values and traditions of Kingitanga have left an indelible mark on our nation," he said.

Jacinda Ardern, New Zealand's former prime minister, said Kiingi Tuheitia had been an advocate for Maori, for fairness, justice and prosperity.

Local media reported he would now be taken to his home meeting place, Turangawaewae marae, and his tangihanga, or funeral rites, are expected to last at least five days.

(Reporting by Lucy Craymer; Editing by Sandra Maler)