Sir Howard Morrison's tangi

Photo: Stephen Parker, Rotorua Daily Post

The tangi and funeral of Sir Howard Morrison captivated New Zealand.

Behind the scenes Bay of Plenty and national police worked closely with Māori Wardens to support Sir Howard’s whānau and ensure the event passed as smoothly as possible.

An official police delegation visited Ōhinemutu on the shores of Lake Rotorua on Saturday 26 September to pay their respects to Sir Howard Morrison and his whānau.

The kaumatua of Police District Advisory Boards from the length of the North Island and Police Iwi Liaison Officers representing their areas on behalf of police also attended to pay their respects.

A significant traffic management plan was put in place to support the funeral and following procession around the city streets of Rotorua. The procession was led by District Māori Advisor Lehi Hohaia in an I-car (pictured left).

He was followed by the National Manager of Māori Pacific and Ethnic Services, Superintendent Wally Haumaha, who personally drove Lady Kuia Morrison and daughter Donna in the procession and on to Kauae Cemetery for the burial.

Rotorua police had 12 traffic officers on duty during the event, supported by a large contingent of Māori Wardens from across the Bay of Plenty.