It is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell to a luminary in the world of New Zealand’s Māori culture and education, Sir Patu Hohepa. Whānau spokesperson Julian Wilcox conveyed the somber news of his passing in a heartfelt Facebook post, revealing that Sir Patu Hohepa peacefully departed from this world at his home in Waimā, Hokianga. He was 87 years old.
Sir Patu Hohepa’s legacy is woven deeply into the fabric of New Zealand’s cultural and educational landscape. A former professor of Māori Language at the University of Auckland, he stood as a trailblazer, advocating passionately for the establishment of a marae within the confines of this esteemed tertiary institution. This visionary stance marked the beginning of a journey to bridge cultural gaps and foster understanding.
His dedication to the preservation and proliferation of the Māori language was further exemplified during his tenure as the Māori Language Commissioner for Te Taura Whiri from 1997 to 2007. He ardently championed the revitalization of te reo Māori, recognizing its pivotal role in preserving Māori identity and heritage.
In addition to his role as the Māori Language Commissioner, Sir Patu Hohepa served as a member of Te Waka Toi, the Māori Board of Creative New Zealand, during the early 2000s. This allowed him to contribute significantly to the promotion of Māori arts and culture, fostering creativity and expression among Māori artists.
One of the notable milestones in his illustrious career was in 2014 when he led the New Zealand delegation responsible for accompanying an exhibition of 50 Gottfried Lindauer paintings depicting Māori culture to Europe. This cultural exchange showcased the rich tapestry of Māori heritage to a global audience.
In recognition of his unwavering dedication and profound impact on Māori culture and education, Sir Patu Hohepa was knighted in 2022. This honor reflected his lifelong commitment to the betterment of his community and the preservation of their cultural heritage.
Throughout his career, Sir Patu Hohepa remained steadfast in his commitment to teaching te reo Māori and advocating for the recognition and development of Māori culture. His influence extended far beyond the classroom, touching the lives of countless individuals who were inspired by his passion and wisdom.
As we bid farewell to this remarkable kaumātua, we reflect on the words of Labour MP Peeni Henare, who aptly described Sir Patu Hohepa as a “roaring lion” during the Te Paparahi o te Raki Waitangi Tribunal hearings. He led his people on a journey of rediscovering their history and mātauranga, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of New Zealand.
Sir Patu Hohepa’s tangi will be held at Otātara Marae, Waimā, where friends, family, and admirers will gather to honor his memory and pay their respects to a true cultural icon and leader of Ngāpuhi.