Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga
MP for Maungakiekie

29 March 2012 Media Statement

MP attends funeral of Tongan King

Maungakiekie MP, Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga was honoured to be a part of a high-level delegation representing New Zealand at the state funeral for King George Tupou V.

“The delegation was led by Governor General, Lt General The Right Honourable Sir Jerry Mateparae and was joined by Deputy Prime Minister Bill English, Minister of Foreign Affairs Murray McCully, Minister of Pacific Island Affairs Hekia Parata, Minister of Māori Affairs Pita Sharples, and Opposition Leader David Shearer,” says Mr Lotu-Iiga.

The delegation also included Chief of the Royal New Zealand Navy, Rear Admiral Tony Parr, Auckland Mayor Len Brown, representatives of other parliamentary parties, heads of diplomatic missions, members of the Tongan community, and close friends of the late King.

“My thoughts and prayers continue to be with the Tongan Royal family, the people of Tonga and the Tongan community in New Zealand at this very difficult time,” says Mr Lotu-Iiga.

The late King was laid to rest at the Royal Tombs, the burial place for Tongan monarchs for more than a century. Tonga has declared an official period of morning until June 19.

“On behalf of the people of Maungakiekie I offer the new King, His Majesty King George Tupou VI my deep condolences and wish him well in the service of his people,” says Mr Lotu-Iiga.

Flags on government buildings in New Zealand were flown at half-mast on the day of the funeral.

ENDS

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