Apirana Ngata

Politician

Birthday July 3, 1874

Birth Sign Cancer

Birthplace New Zealand

DEATH DATE Jul 14, 1950 (76)

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About

Remembered as the first member of the indigenous Māori group to serve in the Parliament of New Zealand, this early twentieth-century politician held office from 1928 until 1934 as Minister of Māori Affairs.

Before Fame

After earning a degree in politics from Canterbury University College, he went on to receive a law degree from the University of Auckland.

Trivia

He published a Māori traditional song collection titled Nga Moteatea.

Family Life

Following the death of his fiancee, Te Rina Tamati, he married his deceased love's younger sister, Arihia Kane Tamati. The union resulted in five sons and six daughters.

Associated With

He and fellow New Zealand politician Ralph Hanan both held office as Minister of Māori Affairs.