Maori religious leader dies

One of Maoridom's most prominent religious leaders died last night while awaiting surgery.

Bishop Max Takuira Mariu, 53, had a congenital heart disease and had been in Waikato Hospital for a week.

At about 7.30pm yesterday he was flown to Auckland Hospital but died before surgery last night.

Today political, religious and family tributes were flowing for the man known as "Pa Takuira".

He had close ties to both the Tainui and Ngati Tuwharetoa kahui ariki or paramount families.

Ngati Tuwharetoa spokesman Tom Moana said Bishop Mariu was the best of men.

"He had the ability to awhi (care for) the kahui ariki of Tuwharetoa and to work closely with Waikato. He was a great man for Kingitanga," he said.

Maori Party co-leader Pita Sharples said the bishop had a special spirit.

"Takuira was treasured for his spirit of humility, his enthusiasm and humour, and his wonderful rapport with our families."

For the last 11 years Bishop Mariu was Waikato Bishop Denis Browne's assistant in the Hamilton diocese.

His death at such a young age was a great loss, he said.

Although funeral plans are still being made, it is understood his body will lie at Te Unga Waka in Auckland today and will be at Turangawaewae Marae tomorrow at the request of Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu before a service at the Cathedral of the Blessed Mary in Hamilton.

It is then thought he will be taken to Little Waihi on the southern shores of Lake Taupo for a tangi on Saturday.

- nzpa