Two Tongans, Fane Fusipongi Ketu’u and Kathleen Tuai-Ta’ufo’ou, have been recognised in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours, which saw 178 people acknowledged in the New Zealand Order of Merit.
Ketu’u was awarded the King’s Service Medal (KSM) for her services to Tongan language education.
She has dedicated more than 40 years to promoting Lea Faka-Tonga across schools, churches, and community groups. Her contributions include coordinating the Tonga stage at Polyfest, helping strengthen cultural identity among young people.
Tuai-Ta’ufo’ou was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for her decades of work supporting Pacific communities.
She is the Chief Executive Officer of the Vahefonua Tonga Methodist Mission Charitable Trust (SIAOLA).
Through SIAOLA, she has led major community initiatives, including food parcel and utility support programmes during times of hardship.
She has also supported housing projects such as the GREI programme to improve living conditions for Pacific families.
A strong advocate, Tuai-Ta’ufo’ou frequently speaks on key issues affecting Pacific communities, including labour exploitation, health, and education.
Their recognition highlights the significant contributions of Tongans to New Zealand society and reflects the values of service, leadership, and cultural commitment.
The honours have been widely welcomed as a proud moment for the Tongan community in Aotearoa and abroad.
