Residents of Hā’ano in Tonga’s Ha’apai islands crafted a temporary “chair-wharf” to help passengers board boats from the sea.
This event coincides with significant gatherings in Tonga, where Methodist churches are holding their annual conferences in Vava’u and Ha’apai.
Their Majesties, King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u Tuku’aho, are currently attending the Free Wesleyan Church’s 101st annual conference in Pangai, Ha’apai.
The church’s event also celebrated the 50th anniversary of a cross that appeared on the ground outside the Pulela’ā Free Wesleyan Church in Pangai in 1975.
A common saying in Ha’apai is “Ha’apai maheni faingata’a”—meaning “Ha’apai is accustomed to hardships”, reflecting their resilience despite scarce resources like wharves and safe boats. For years, they have endured and mastered the challenges of island life.
The makeshift “chair-wharf” was set up when church officials and youth attendees arrived in Ha’ano for the 2025 Free Wesleyan Church Youth Conference.
A video posted to Facebook yesterday shows people arranging chairs in a line from the sandy shore through shallow seawater, creating a stable pathway for travellers to walk and embark onto waiting boats.
The makeshift method highlights the resourcefulness of island communities in areas lacking formal port infrastructure.
The caption, “Chair-wharf in action,” has since sparked reactions online, with many viewers amused and impressed by the improvised system.
Overseas Ha’apaians sharing and commenting on the video expressed nostalgia, reflecting on their lives in the islands before emigrating.
“Stand up Hā’ano and take the lead”, a commenter wrote in Tongan.
“Love you Hā’ano”, another wrote.
However, some commenters inquired about a wharf that was planned.
