The Ngati Tangiiau chiefly tribe of Takitumu have gathered at Te Tu’ukura Marae in Turangi, Ngatangiia for the peaceful “akataoanga” traditional investiture of Maui Rangatira – Justine Matatoa Flanagan and Te Pa’u Tangi o Tangiiau Rangatira – Teremoana Peter Tamariki Monga.

Tangiiau Mataiapo Tutara – Moria Tangiiau Pokoina aged 75 years, conducted the protocols for the investitures that concluded with the placing of rauti enua ei katu on both Rangatira.

Valerie Wichman was also confirmed as the Kauono o Tangiiau Mataiapo Tutara, on the marae.

The Vaatuatua o Tangiiau Mataiapo Tutara, or spokesperson, Pira Wichman said the preparations and the proceedings of the event went well.

Pira said the Tangiiau Mataiapo Tutara investiture was held in 2006, and since then this was the first time another investiture had taken place on the marae.

Taia Ruruvaka Rangatira – Mii Rorani Puia and Tuamoa Rangatira – Vaevae Tangiiti, also assisted with the protocols of the Rangatira investitures.

Orometua Aravei William from the Ngatangiia CICC (Cook Islands Christian Church) led the ceremony with an opening prayer as well as the blessing of the occasion, and the final prayer followed by grace.

Raurau plates of food and nu prepared by the hard-working families were shared with the guests.