In March 1881, her father was in turn deposed by the Raiatean people for allowing the French to declare a protectorate over the kingdom.
Consequently, in April, she was elected to succeed him to the throne with a council of twelve district chiefs, four from Tahaa and eight from Raiatea.
[3][4] Her coronation was performed by Reverend Albert Pearse at Uturoa Church with due solemnity and rejoicings.
[6] In 1881, she unsuccessfully attempted to enlist the protection of the British to preserve the independence of Raiatea in accordance with the Jarnac Convention of 1847.
To avoid French intervention a female-line cousin of the late queen, the equally pious[3] Prince Ari'imate Teururai of Huahine, was invited to ascend the throne as King Tamatoa VI.