Maori Queen 'needs rest'

Few details were available last night on the condition of Maori Queen Dame Te Atairangikaahu, who was admitted to Waikato Hospital on Tuesday following a heart attack.

Tainui chairman Tuku Morgan said the family had requested privacy for the elderly monarch who has suffered serious health problems in the past 12 months.

"The situation is that the Queen is recuperating and needs her rest. All the family ask at this time is that her privacy is maintained."