However, there are some important figures who are widely recognized and respected within the Māori community:
* Kingitanga: The Kingitanga movement is a significant political and cultural entity within Māori society. It established a King of the Māori people in 1858. The current King is King Tuheitia Paki, who ascended to the throne in 2006.
* Tūrangawaewae: The Tūrangawaewae Marae (meeting house) is a sacred site in Ngaruawahia, considered the spiritual home of the Kingitanga. It is a place of great importance for Māori people, and the King often resides there.
* Other Leaders: While the Kingitanga has a prominent role, many iwi and hapū have their own leaders and chiefs, who are often referred to as "kaumatua" (elders) or "rangatira" (chiefs).
Therefore, while there is no single "Maori King" in the traditional sense, King Tuheitia Paki is the current leader of the Kingitanga movement, which holds a significant position within the Māori community.