King Tāwhiao was the second Māori King of the Kīngitanga movement in New Zealand, succeeding his father, King Potatau Te Wherowhero, in 1860. He played a significant role in advocating for Māori rights and sovereignty during a time of increasing European settlement and land confiscation. Tāwhiao is known for his efforts to unite various Māori tribes and promote peace among them. He also sought to establish a Māori parliament and worked to preserve Māori culture and language. His reign lasted until his death in 1894, and he remains a respected figure in Māori history.