Tūheitia Paki is the current Māori King, having ascended to the throne in 2006 after the passing of his mother, Dame Te Atairangikaahu. He is the seventh leader of the Kiingitanga movement, which was established in the 19th century to unify Māori tribes and promote their rights and interests. As King, Tūheitia Paki represents the Waikato-Tainui iwi and plays a significant role in Māori cultural and political affairs. He is involved in various initiatives aimed at preserving Māori language and culture, as well as advocating for social justice and economic development within Māori communities.