Pita Paraone

Political career

Paraone served multiple terms in the New Zealand Parliament, representing New Zealand First. His parliamentary service included two distinct periods: first from 2002 until 2008, and later from 2014 until 2017. During his time in politics he was active on matters relating to Māori affairs and the role of Treaty relationships in public life. For more on his parliamentary record, see the entry at New Zealand Parliament.

• MP, New Zealand First: 2002–2008
• MP, New Zealand First: 2014–2017

Waitangi National Trust and public service

Paraone chaired the Waitangi National Trust Board, the organisation that manages the Waitangi Treaty Grounds — a symbolically important site where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed in 1840. In this role he was involved in preserving the site, facilitating public ceremonies, and engaging with iwi, government and visitors to interpret the treaty's history. His public work reflected a broader commitment to promoting Māori culture and participation in New Zealand civic life. Background information on the town of his birth, Kawakawa, can be found at Kawakawa.

Death and legacy

Paraone died on 26 August 2019 at the age of 73 in a hospital in Auckland following complications related to heart surgery. Contemporary reports described his passing as linked to problems after a surgical procedure; further accounts appeared in national news outlets and statements from colleagues and community organisations. See reporting on the circumstances at Auckland hospital reports and on surgical complications in general at surgical safety resources. Tributes and reflections on his contribution were published by political and Māori organisations and are available at news and tribute sources.

Paraone is remembered for blending parliamentary service with cultural advocacy, and for his leadership at one of New Zealand's key historic sites. His career illustrates the intersections of national politics, Māori representation, and heritage stewardship in contemporary New Zealand.