Final farewell for Mauriora Kingi (+ video)

Mourners say their farewell to Mauriora Kingi.

The funeral service for the much-loved Te Arawa leader, Mauriora Kingi has been held.

Hundreds of people were at Te Paakira Marae at Whakarewarewa to bid farewell to Mr Kingi.

Warriors at the tangi of Mauriora Kingi.

A reporter at the scene said mourners are backed up to the bridge near the entrance of the Whakarewarewa village.

Large screens showing the service were set up for those who are too far away from the wharenui.

Mr Kingi, who was director of kaupapa Maori at Rotorua Lakes Council, died on Friday, aged 53.

He was laid to rest at Te Ao-nui urupa following the service.