Remembering Sir Tumu Te Heuheu Tūkino VIII
He aitua, he aitua, he aitua. Kua hinga he totara i te wao nui a Tāne
The New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO acknowledges the passing of Sir Tumu Te Heuheu Tūkino VIII, who made a profound and lasting impact on UNESCO's World Heritage efforts, both in New Zealand and globally. His leadership was marked by a deep commitment to cultural integrity, environmental stewardship, and international cooperation.
Sir Tumu was the first, and only, New Zealander to Chair the UNESCO World Heritage Committee. Sir Tumu held this prestigious role with distinction, bringing Māori values and perspectives to the global stage.
He was instrumental in securing Tongariro’s recognition in 1993 as the first site in the world to be listed for both its natural and cultural significance. This acknowledged not only the park’s volcanic landscape but also its spiritual and ancestral importance to Ngāti Tūwharetoa.
“Sir Tumu championed the idea that intangible cultural heritage—such as traditions, beliefs, and spiritual connections—should be valued equally alongside physical monuments and landscapes.
Sir Tumu’s legacy is one of quiet strength, cultural pride, and visionary leadership. His work not only elevated Māori heritage on the world stage but also reshaped how UNESCO views the interconnectedness of people, land, and spirit,” says National Commission Culture Commissioner, Dr Dan Hikuroa.
Former National Commission Chair Margaret Austin, who led the National Commission when Sir Tumu chaired the UNESCO World Heritage Committee pays homage to his leadership, hospitality and generosity.
“Sir Tumu has a memorable and remarkable legacy of humanitarian and dedicated service domestically and internationally. I recall with great pleasure his welcome to Mr Matsuura, the Director General of UNESCO when he visited the Marae at the base of Mt Tongariro in 2004. He was welcomed by Sir Tumu and a haka by 200 warriors reverberating off the mountain and followed by a hui led by Sir Tumu and six chiefs examining the importance of the World Heritage site and the first in the world to be declared a Natural Cultural environment. It was moving beyond description. Later as Chair of the UNESCO World Heritage Commission he chaired their conference in Christchurch in 2007 and later in 2012 he opened the first Starlight Conference in Takapō.. His legacy will be honoured for centuries, and we mourn his passing.”
He kotuku rerenga tahi.
