The Māori King has been given Hamilton's highest honour - the freedom of the city.
Te Arikinui Kiingi Tuheitia was given the prize for "his contribution to the community at a time when he is soon to celebrate an important milestone in his role as King" - his 10th anniversary of taking the throne.
"Te Arikinui Kiingi Tuheitia has given 10 years of service to the people of Hamilton and continues to ensure the best for our community," says Mayor Julie Hardaker.
"He has led or been involved in numerous projects and initiatives that have helped Hamilton become the best city it can be."
Julie Hardaker and Te Arikinui Kiingi Tuheitia (supplied)
He follows in the footsteps of his mother, Queen Te Arikinui Dame Te Aatairangikaahu, who was made a Freedom Holder of the City in 1973.
Ms Hardaker says the King is responsible for establishing the Waikato-Tainui College for Research and Development, a nursing scholarship at Wintec and shopping centre The Base. He also serves as a patron, chair or appoints individuals to key leadership roles in 56 different organisations, including the University of Waikato and Wintec.
Other Freedom Holders Dame Malvina Major, David Sidwell, Pippa Mahood and John Gallagher were present at Monday's ceremony.
The title is purely ceremonial.
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