Sir Tumu Te Heuheu Tukino VIII was a much admired leader for his people of Tuwharetoa and a revered figure within Māoridom. He succeeded his father Sir Hepi Hoani Te Heuheu Tukino VII as the Tuwharetoa Ariki. Both of these men made significant contributions to the life of our nation.
Sir Tumu carried his leadership role into international fora, he became the first NZ to Chair UNESCO's World Heritage Committee. He fulfilled this role with class, dignity and purposefulness.
We acknowledge his contribution towards the recognition of Tongariro National Park as a site of world heritage status.
His quiet understated approach marked him as a trusted leader who would listen and offer valuable counsel. His views were frequently sought on matters of significance to government, iwi, foreign dignitaries and community.
As a pivotal member of the Ariki whānau of Te Heuheu his leadership has added to the richness of his forebears.
"E Kara e Tumu, kua pokia te tihi o to maunga ki te kapua pouri. E tangi ana nga wai kei tō roto a Taupo-nui-a-Tia e aue ana te iwi mou ka ngaro nei, e hoki koe ki te kainga tuturu, ki tua o Paerau, haere atu ra, haere atu ra".
