Toka Tokarahi Tauraki, fondly known as Mary by her friends, has passed away peacefully at her home in Otara, Auckland, New Zealand on September 19, 2024, surrounded by her beloved family. Her passing marks the end of a cherished life, deeply connected to her Cook Islands heritage.
Toka was the daughter of the late Papa Tokarahi Tauraki Paringa from Rakahanga, Manihiki, and Mama Amiria Tauraki née Tokahere Pakipaki from Manihiki. She was a loving sister to Elisaia, Teretahi, Ngatere, Taia, Papari, and Ben, with several of her siblings having passed before her.
Toka leaves behind her children Alice (deceased), David, Tupou Barry (deceased), Munokoa Joanna, Kopa Samuel (deceased), Grace, Marilyn, and Jonathan. She was also a mother to Kim, Anthony, Wendy (deceased), Mersadies, Tarita, and Tokarahi. She was a proud grandmother and great-grandmother to many.
A family service will be held on Wednesday, September 25, at the Cook Islands Seventh Day Adventist Church in East Tamaki, followed by a burial on Thursday, September 26, at Mangere Lawn Cemetery.
Condolences have been pouring in. “R.I.L Aunty Toka, we will miss you forever in our hearts,” shared Ana Tauraki.