Kingi Tuheitia has been laid to rest at the top of Maungataupiri

He's been buried in an unmarked grave alongside his mother Dame Te Atairangikaahu and the previous Maori monarchs.

Thousands have gathered at Turangawaewae Marae, the Waikato River bank and the foot of the mountain to bid Kingi Tuheitia farewell.

His youngest child and only daughter Nga Wai hono i te po has been ushered to the throne as his successor.

She is the eighth Maori monarch and the second Maori Queen.

NZ Herald Focus reporter Chereè Kinnear says the sun's been out all day - making for a beautiful send off.

She says people had come from all across the country for this - and it was clear how much meant for them to be there.