Former Labour MP Koro Wetere dies

Koro Wetere. Photo: Getty
Koro Wetere. Photo: Getty
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is among those paying tribute to former Maori Affairs and Labour MP Koro Wetere, who has died aged 83.

Wetere was Minister of Maori Affairs from 1984 to 1990 in the Labour Government and played a key role in te reo Maori being recognised as an official language, and the resolution of the Maori fisheries settlement.

Wetere, who died in Te Kuiti Hospital this morning, was made a CBE in 1996 for services to Maori.

Ardern, still in Auckland City Hospital after the birth of her daughter, passed on her respects through a spokesman.

Acting Prime Minister Winston Peters said, on behalf of the Government, he wanted to acknowledge the contribution Wetere had made to the country and his remarkable service as an MP for more than quarter of a century.

“Koro was highly respected across the divide of politics for his sincerity and integrity. Our deepest condolences are extended to his family and to Ngati Maniapoto for their loss,” Peters said.

Former prime minister Helen Clark wrote on Twitter that Wetere was a much-valued colleague for many years and a Labour stalwart, Tainui elder and had dedicated his life to public service.

Opposition leader Simon Bridges has also paid tribute.

Whanau spokesperson Hone Edwards told Maori Television Watere would be taken to Turangawaewae Marae this afternoon.

Add a Comment