The French Polynesian president, Oscar Temaru, has expressed his condolences to to the family of the Maori Queen, Dame Te Atairangikaahu who died in Ngaruawahia on Tuesday night.
A statement issued in Papeete says he last met her at her residence in March and that she joined the opening of the outrigger canoe world championships on Lake Karapiro.
She is being described as a guardian of traditions for the greater Polynesian family.
Mr Temaru is expected to attend her funeral but an announcement is only expected once the date for the burial has been set.
