In 1871 Makea Takau became ariki of Rarotonga and queen regnant of the newly established Kingdom of Rarotonga, as a consequence making Ngamaru prince consort of the realm of the united Cook Islands.

He was Representative of Atiu, Mitiaro and Mauke in the Federal Council and also a native Judge of the Ariki's Court at Avarua.

Ngamaru was a man of strong personal character, and had the happy knack of settling troublesome matters with a jocular remark.

[1] Prince Ngamaru died of blood poisoning after an injury to his hand, he was 72 years of age.

[2] He was buried in Queen Makea's private graveyard at Para O Tane Palace.