Sadness at loss of inspirational leader

Labour’s Maori caucus has expressed its sympathy and thoughts to the whānau of Jacqui Te Kani, saying she was an inspirational and aspirational leader.

"Jacqui served as the 16th President of the Maori Women’s Welfare League between 1999 and 2002. She has always been dedicated to the vision of the League to empower women, support children and families and advance Maori development,” Labour’s Maori Affairs spokesperson Parekura Horomia said.

"When I heard of Jacqui's untimely death I thought of the many years of service that she has given as a member of the League, a trustee of the Maori Women’s Development Incorporation, and as chair of Te Māngai Pāho, in addition to her own commitments as a mother and grandmother.

"Jacqui undertook to advance the aspiration of Maori women in every aspect of life. She was a friend and will be missed.

"My colleagues and I also want to acknowledge Jacqui's children who understood the dedication and commitment that their mother gave to the League and Maori women throughout the country.

"We convey our deepest sympathy to the Te Kani whānau and to her family of League friends and wish Jacqui and her whānau a safe return to their ancestral marae in Mangatu,” Parekura Horomia said.

"Moe Mai e kui, e moe.”