The traditional queen of the island of Atiu in the Cook Islands, Ada Rongomatane, has died after falling into a coma last week.
The Cook Islands are mourning the passing of Ada Rongomatane Ariki, pictured here on the right with the late Te Tika Mataiapo Dorice Reid. Photo: RNZ Pacific / Flo Syme Buchanan
Known as Ada Rongomatane Ariki, the traditional queen was a past president of the traditional House of Ariki.
Clerk of the House of Ariki Tupuna Rakanui says the Atiu community on Rarotonga in collaboration with the traditional leaders of Atiu are now planning her funeral arrangements.
Her body will be flown back to Atiu for burial.
Ada Rongomatane was widely respected and much loved for her humility and kindness.
