It's been 90 years since Sir Māui Pōmare died and while commemorations still went ahead they were carried out online rather than at Owae Marae in Waitara. (File photo)The physical commemoration of a Māori health giant that usually draws hundreds to a Taranaki marae was held virtually this year out of respect for his work. The annual Te Rā o Māui Pōmare, or Māui Pōmare Day, commemorates the life of the first Māori doctor and health minister and was held on Saturday, 90 years on from his death of an infectious disease. READ MORE:* Coronavirus: Roadblocks and luck stopped Māori bearing the brunt of Covid-19* Calls to combine sectors to improve Māori health* Taranaki MP fearful over what health reform could mean for Māori, region* GJ Gardner pulls ad after complaint over mispronunciation of TaranakiPōmare was born in Urenui around 1875 and was known for his efforts to improve Māori health and living conditions. Andy Jackson/Stuff Usually hundreds gather at Owae Marae for Te Rā o Māui Pōmare.

Source: Stuff June 27, 2020 23:37 UTC