Sally-Ann Roberts (Ngāti Hinemihi, Ngāti Pikiao, Te Whakatōhea, Ngāpuhi), was returned to her beloved marae Hinemihi of Ngāti Hinemihi and Ngāti Tarāwhai in Rotorua today.
More than 500 people packed the marae as she was carried on by friends and family.
“It is without a doubt her kapa Tūhourangi Ngāti Wahiao, along with family and friends, are in mourning for the loss of a leader of their group”, said Anaha Hiini, spokesperson for the bereaved family.