Maori King speaks at new airport hotel opening

Maori King Tuheitia Paki, Prime Minister John Key attend the official opening of the Novotel. Photo / Greg Bowker

In a rare move, Maori King Tuheitia has spoken at the opening of the Novotel at the international terminal of Auckland Airport.

It was a nice surprise for guests as he usually only publicly speaks at annual coronation events.

This morning at a dawn ceremony blessing of the hotel, the king addressed an audience of 300, including Prime Minister John Key, MPs and Auckland Mayor Len Brown.

King Tuheitia said the $65 million joint-venture project between Tainui Group Holdings, Auckland Airport and hotel chain Accor was special because it was sited at the place where the Tainui waka was originally dragged ashore when it landed at Manukau Harbour.

In his speech, he paid tribute to his late mother, Te Arikinui Dame Te Atatirangikaahu.

"My mother was always determined to building a partnership with the people of Auckland Airport," King Tuheitia said, adding his mother realised more than just commercial partnerships were needed.

"We also needed social and cultural partnerships to lead a balanced life."

Addressing Mr Key, Auckland Airport chairwoman Joan Withers and dignitaries including Ngai Tahu chairman Mark Solomon, King Tuheitia said the quick two year turnaround to complete the build shows what could happen when partners work together.

"It shows what can be achieved through partnership - let us continue the good work together."

It was a confident and polished speech from a man who only a few years ago struggled with the public speaking side of his role.

Afterwards, Mr Key said there had been a big hole in the market not having a hotel at the airport.

"This the largest gateway, it is the place where most people come internationally so the hotel at the airport is critically important."

Mr Key said the project showed the treaty settlement process was working and for Tainui it was another property added to an impressive portfolio which includes commercial property in Hamilton.