Māori politicians and musicians have expressed their sadness over the news of NBA Legend Kobe Bryant's tragic passing.
It is reported that his 13 year old daughter Gianna Maria was in the helicopter and passed away with her father.
Nga manaakitanga o te runga rawa ki runga I a koe. 😢💔 RIP bro
Posted by Tumehe Rongonui on Sunday, January 26, 2020
Facebook Post from Tumehe Rongonui
Had a bit of a tangi. Kobe was one of my hero’s. Moe mai ra e te rangatira. @Lakers
— AWA (@Awa_1) January 26, 2020
Tweet from Te Awanui Reeder aka Awa
Though a full list of victims has yet to be released it is understood that Bryant's wife Vanessa Bryant was not on board.
Sad news about #KobeBryant #BlackMamba one of my all time favourite players #Lakers
— Hon. Peeni Henare MP (@PeeniHenare) January 26, 2020