The Maori Party mourns the death today of Timoti Morehu te Heuheu of Ngati Tuwharetoa.

"Timi personified the dignity, diplomacy and quiet leadership that has characterised the Whare Ariki o Ngati T?wharetoa," said Co-leaders Tariana Turia and Pita Sharples.

"His potential was seen early and nurtured by the iwi, and he repaid them with a lifetime of service," said Dr Sharples.

"As a long-standing member of the Tuwharetoa Maori Trust Board, Timi helped map out a strategic direction for the future of the iwi, integrating social, cultural and economic development with protection of natural and cultural heritage. And he helped to implement those plans, as a member of the Whanau Ora Regional Leadership Group of Te Arawa, for example," he said.

Mrs Turia said Timi epitomised the proverb: 'Ma te mahi e kitea ai te rangatira, ehara ma te waha' - you see leadership in deeds, not in words.

"That was especially true of Timi's important role supporting the public spokespeople and representatives of Ngati Tuwharetoa, in particular his brother Sir Tumu te Heuheu, and his wife, our Ministerial and Parliamentary colleague Georgina te Heuheu," said Mrs Turia. "Timi's advice and support behind the scenes helped them to shine, and the iwi to prosper.

"We will miss his presence and his friendship, and our thoughts are with his family who are mourning his loss today," said Mrs Turia and Dr Sharples.