Back in, sorry, but…
Vaeruarangi Teaukura Ariki of Aitutaki apologized to the Queen’s Representative verbally and in writing earlier this week and was re-admitted to the House of Ariki

Back in 2009 He was part of a group of Ariki who issued a proclamation which government saw as challenging its authority. It was Vaeruarangi who read out the proclamation at Taputapuatea. Those Ariki were banned from the House of Ariki. Most later apologized and were re-admitted but Vaeruarangi was one of only two remaining.
Back among his fellow Ariki, Vaeruarangi says he will continue to question the role of the House of Ariki, and the Arikis themselves in relation to the role of government. Vaeruarangi Ariki says he plans to carry out some research into the legality of certain procedures which call for the Ariki to swear an oath of allegiance to the Queen of England.
Important is finding out at what point in our history were the Ariki required by law to swear such an allegiance.
He plans to re-examine the compatibility of some of parliament’s laws in relation to long standing customary practice and tradition.
With the declaration that July 6th be a public holiday Ariki Day to commemorate the establishment of the House of Ariki in 1966, the question arises says Vaeruarangi Ariki as to the underlying purpose of having such a holiday. There needed to be a greater purpose than just celebrating the mere fact that the “House” was established. If over subsequent years, the “House” and its members have not been allowed to exercise their full customary and traditional rights then what is there to celebrate?
Many other questions and issues still bother Vaeruarangi Ariki and these will be brought to the surface in due time and he has assured the Times that each issue will be backed by vigorous research.
Set out below is a copies of his apology to the QR and his re-admittance to the House of Ariki. -Charles Pitt

Headlines : Times 290 02 March 2009
- Lucky $1,000 winner
- Century old palm trees and the French connection
- Koutu Nui takes part in Raui meeting in Moorea
- WOM Award Dinner for Ake Hosea-Winterflood
- Island of Atiu to host Koutu Nui AGM in June 2009