New Zealand Rugby today paid tribute to respected Māori rugby leader, administrator and kaumatua, Whetu Tipiwai, who has passed away after a short illness.

New Zealand Māori Rugby Board Chairman, Wayne Peters, said Tipiwai served Māori rugby with distinction and was widely respected throughout the rugby community.

“Whetu gave long service to the game he loved and will be greatly missed,” said Peters.  “He touched the lives of many, including players, young and old. Around the Board table it was evident to all that he had the very best interests at heart for rugby in general and Māori rugby in particular.”

Tipiwai was an influential figure in developing Māori rugby through various roles over many decades. He was Chairperson of the Hawke’s Bay Māori Rugby Board for 30 years, chaired the Central Region Māori Rugby Board for 10 years and was a member of the New Zealand Māori Rugby Board for 15 years.

He was also kaumatua of the Māori All Blacks (then called New Zealand Māori) from 2001 to 2010. He composed the team’s haka; Timatanga and gifted this taonga to the team when it was first performed in 2001. He also composed the Black Ferns’ haka; Ko Uhia Mai.

New Zealand Māori coach from 1995-2006, Matt Te Pou, paid tribute to Tipiwai’s immense contribution to the success of the team.

“Whetu had a natural wisdom when reaching out to all who were fortunate to connect with him. During his time with New Zealand Māori, he played an essential role as kaumatua, leading kapa haka, whakapapa, and the team’s haka; Timatanga, and was integral in supporting an environment of success for the team.

“He was also a man of wonderful personality, full of mischief and humour. He will be sorely missed.”

In 2009 he was awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori and rugby.

“Whetu well knew the important part rugby played in developing healthy lifestyles for our people and in strengthening community ties,” said Peters.  “He knew the value of public service and gave back to his community in so many ways.

“On behalf of New Zealand Rugby, I extend our sympathies to his whanau at this sad time.”