Former Rotorua man knighted for services to Maori

Sir Matiu Nohorua Te Rei, centre, originally from Rotorua, has been knighted for his services to Maori. Photo/File

The family of former Rotorua man Sir Matiu Nohorua Te Rei have spoken of their pride at his recent knighthood.

Sir Matiu become a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Maori in the Queen's Birthday Honours.

Sir Matiu attended Rotorua Primary School, Rotorua Intermediate, Rotorua Boys' High School and Church College of New Zealand. He moved from Rotorua in the 1980s, spending some time in Sydney working for a computer company called Aspect, before moving back to New Zealand to set up an office in Wellington.

His sister Miriama Searancke, who lives in Ohinemutu, said his family was very proud of his achievements.

" His knighthood represents what he has done for his tribe."

She said he had achieved a lot for Ngati Toa Rangatira. He was also descended from Ngati Whakaue, Ngapui, Ngati Kuri and Ngati Ruanui, she said.

Sir Matiu was part of the foreshore and seabed claims, which was what he believed he got his knighthood for, she said.

"We are very proud of what he has achieved and it's good for Maoridom.

"His mother and father would have been very proud of what he has achieved."

Sir Matiu has served the Maori community in health, education, economic development, culture and Treaty of Waitangi resolution.

Since 1989 Sir Matiu has been pivotal in the growth of Te Runanga O Toa Rangatira, the development organisation for the Ngati Toa Rangatira people, of which he is executive director.

He has been principal adviser to the Runanga Council on the tribe's business investments and operations and has led the Runanga's promotion of tribal language, history and traditional customs.

Since 1986 he has been responsible for preparing and leading Ngati Toa's Treaty of Waitangi claim and for developing the post-settlement entity and its organisational structure.

Among his many other roles, he is also a founding member, foundation director and Te Purutanga Mauri of the Maori University Te Wananga O Raukawa.