Big crowds are gathering in Te Hapua in the Far North for the tangihanga of the much-loved kuia Saana Murray.
Aunty Saana - as she was known - was one of the original Wai 262 claimants and a staunch supporter of Maori rights. She took part in many hikoi, including the historic land march led by Whina Cooper in 1975.
She passed away at the weekend, and has been lying in state at Te Reo Mihi Marae.
Saana Murray will be buried on Wednesday at Kapo Wairua - Spirits Bay.
Her mokopuna Rangimarie Subritsky says manuhiri will include Maori Party and Mana Party leaders, and Saana Murray's long-time friend the historian Oliver Sutherland.
"She loved lots of people. It didn't matter what race they were, she just loved everyone."
