Mii Tungane Kauvai has been invested with the traditional title of Te Maeu O Te Rangi Teikamata Ariki of Nukuroa/Mitiaro, continuing the legacy of her late mother.

The investiture ceremony was held at Te Au Tapu Marae o Ngati Teakatauira in Mitiaro last month on November 29.

She continues the legacy of her late mother Mii Tungane Upokoati O’Bryan OBE, the previous title holder of Te Maeu O Te Rangi Teikamata Ariki, who passed away on August 31, 2024, in Rarotonga. She was aged 95.

“I’m humbled to be given the privilege by the Ngati Teakatauira tribe and the people of Nukuroa, carrying on Mum’s legacy for Ngati Teakatauira,” Kauvai said.

“Never in my lifetime could I imagine being given this honour that has been bestowed on me. I will work hard and do my best to carry on my mother’s legacy.”

Kauvai said the event ran smoothly and a highlight was seeing the Ngati Teakatauira family from Akatokamanava/Mauke, Enuamanu/Atiu, and Rarotonga fly in for the ceremony.

“It was the most amazing and peaceful day surrounded by family, friends and the people of Nukuroa, Enuamanu e Akatokamanava,” she said.

“Ngati Teakatauira, I will carry you on my shoulders and will serve you as best as I can. I look forward to this journey working closely with you all to achieve your vision, our vision, and the goals for Nukuroa - our unique paradise.”

Looking ahead, Kauvai hopes to strengthen the bonds within the Ngāti Teakatauira tribe and bring everyone closer together.

Traditional leaders of the Ngati Teakatauira tribe, who attended the investiture, included Teokotai “Tai” Topa, the Tutini Kavana o Ngati Teakatauira, the chief speaker for the entire tribe, assistant Kavana is Are Tiare Kauono Noo Pouao, and Vaa Arara is Tuakeu Tangatapoto Tengarutuki Mataiapo. She has 12 Mataiapo.

Kauvai was announced the new Te Maeu O Te Rangi Teikamata Ariki at the special election meeting held at Te Papae O Ngati Akatauira – Te Rongo o te Au Tapu, in Mitiaro, in October, 2024.

Her mother, Mii O’Bryan was invested with the chiefly title in February 1985. She was one of the longest-serving members of Te Are Ariki (House of Ariki).