The passing of a Tokoroa matriarch (Radio New Zealand)

South Waikato iwi Ngati Raukawa are mourning the death of tribal stalwart Emare Nikora, who helped start Tokoroa’s first kohanga reo in 1986.

Mrs Nikora was also a founder of the Raukawa Trust Board and the iwi’s radio station.

She was awarded a Queens Service Medal for services to Maori.

Homai Uerata, a kaipapaho at the radio station, says Mrs Nikora was involved in all aspects of Maori development, but the reo held a special place in her heart.

I was deeply moved at a recent hui where her mokopuna gave a really stirring tribute to her grandmother, honouring the legacy she has provided them through a foundation built on kaupapa and tikanga Maori” said MP Te Ururoa Flavell

Emare was also involved in the Maori Womens Welfare League, a trustee of Raukawa Television and a co-founder of the Ngati Raukawa Trust Board.

Mrs Nikora is lying at Maungatautari marae. Burial service at 11am on Friday.

All our love Whaea Emare…