A book about the life of the late Parekura Horomia has been launched at Uawa, or Tolaga Bay, on the East Coast.
Parekura Horomia. Photo: LABOUR PARTY
The book, Kia Ora chief, was written by Mr Horomia's friend, Sir Wira Gardiner.
He made a vow to the former Maori Affairs Minister's children at his tangi last year that he would write a biography about the well-respected man, known by his family and those he grew up with as "Para".
The book looks back on his life, touching on his upbringing on the East Coast, his early work life as a shearer and his parliamentary career.
It also reflects on his tangi, attended by about 12,000 people.
The profits from the book are to be directed to an education fund for Mr Horomia's mokopuna, or grandchildren.
The book was launched on Saturday and a ceremony marking its release will also be held at parliament on Tuesday night.
