Sunday, June 22, 2025
Newsletter
Support Kaniva
Home Blog Page 25

Tonga on high alert as whale season approaches, boat safety in question  

By
Kalino Latu
-

The Town Officer of Neiafu, Vava’u in Tonga, has issued a safety warning about the condition of certain boats ahead of the upcoming whale-watching season.  

Concerns have been raised regarding recently imported boats in Vava’u as the whale watching season approaches. Photo/ Vāvā Lapota

The concern follows recent complaints about the excessive number of licenses leading to oversaturation in the whale watching business.

Neiafu Town Officer Vavā Lapota said rigorous safety checks were needed to prevent accidents that could endanger lives, particularly those involving boats recently imported from overseas by Asian operators.

He called for immediate inspections of what he had described as serious hull and boarding ladder damage before the season begins in full swing.  

“We are looking forward to the upcoming whale watching season, but some boats were only recently brought in from overseas. It has been alleged that there are issues with these boats’ keels,” the Town Officer alleged.   

“Ensuring the safety of the boats is crucial, as any accidents could result in loss of life.”  

Vava’u’s waters are a prime destination for humpback whale migrations, making whale watching a key economic driver.   

For years, stakeholders have called for stricter regulations and fewer licenses to ensure sustainable practices, yet the problem persists.  

Past incidents involving unsafe vessels have prompted calls for stricter enforcement of maritime safety standards.   

Complaints have also arisen about tourists disregarding guidelines when interacting with whales. 

Reports claimed a decline in whale arrivals began in 2017 and worsened until showing signs of recovery only after the COVID-19 hiatus. 

This three-year break highlighted the industry’s fragility and the need for better management, the reports said.

The reports also alleged that despite repeated warnings from the Ministry of Tourism about oversaturation, successive Ministers have continued issuing additional licenses, ignoring established whale-watching regulations, undermining industry sustainability, and disregarding the investments of existing operators.  

The Ministry of Tourism and the owners of the boats could not be reached for comment.

Former Auckland undertaker sentenced to two years, three months in prison

By
Kaniva Staff
-

By 1News Reporters

A former Auckland undertaker has been jailed for two years and three months after improperly handling human remains and deceiving people to buy vaccines for their dead loved ones.

Fiona Bakulich appears in court.
Fiona Bakulich appears in court. (Source: 1News)

Fiona Bakulich, a former employee of Tipene Funerals, was also ordered to pay more than $16,900 in reparations.

The 48-year-old pleaded guilty to two charges of interfering with human remains and 12 charges of obtaining by deception in February.

She was required to correctly line and seal coffins with zinc prior to interment as part of her job.

The offending came to light when caskets were damaged during Cyclone Gabrielle.

In one case, a casket was disinterred to check for damage, which revealed the casket hadn’t been lined with zinc – instead the deceased had been wrapped in plastic.

In another, a casket which had been damaged was disinterred, revealing it had not been lined with zinc and the deceased had been placed without any protective covering except for clothing.

Between 2021 and 2024, Bakulich deceived seven families to pay her for Covid-19 immunisations and treatments for their deceased loved ones, which were not administered or required.

She also deceived one victim to pay her for an injection on the genitalia of their deceased loved one because of an infection.

No injections were administered or required.

In another instance, Bakulich deceived a victim to believe the Ministry of Health required $7000 to be paid for breaching Covid requirements during a funeral.

Her offending related to 11 victims in total.

Parliament approves TOP$31m supplementary budget for key projects, adjourns until further notice 

By
Kalino Latu
-

A rare show of unity in Tonga’s Legislative Assembly saw every MP rally behind a TOP$31 million spending package designed to accelerate progress on pivotal national projects.  

The 2025 Supplementary Appropriation Bill, scrutinized by the Public Accounts Committee, earmarks funds for road upgrades, student loans, and disaster relief, including critical support for families displaced by the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai eruption.  

Finance Minister Dr ‘Aisake Eke emphasized accountability, assuring Tongans that each allocation, from the Pangai foreshore’s final construction phase to emergency reserves, will be closely monitored for impact. 

All 23 MPs present when the motion was debated voted in favor. 

Finance Minister Dr. ‘Aisake Eke announced that the TOP $31 million budget will fund several key government initiatives, including: 

  • $300,000 for the final stage of Pangai foreshore construction 
  • $2 million for shares in Lulutai Airline 
  • $5.3 million for Tonga Development 
  • Continued financial support for 3,600 students under the World Bank’s SET Project, set to conclude in June 2025 
  • $2 million for the Emergency Fund 
  • $5 million for the student loan scheme 
  • Funds to complete housing for individuals displaced by the 2022 Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai eruption 
  • $10 million for road infrastructure 

The Public Accounts Committee has thoroughly reviewed the Bill, and the Hon. Prime Minister, also the Minister of Finance, confirmed that its provisions will be closely monitored. 

The Legislative Assembly has now adjourned until further notice. 

Promoting Gender Equality in Tonga

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Editor’s Note: This letter is published as part of the author’s university assignment.

Dear Editor,


While studying Human Rights at the University of the South Pacific, I had an assignment to write a letter expressing my concerns on a topic of my choice. I chose to focus on promoting gender equality in Tonga.

Gender inequalities in Tonga persist, especially in education, work, and leadership.

While there are signs of gender equality in certain areas, most women still encounter significant barriers to their economic and political participation. Education is a powerful tool for empowerment; however, cultural and financial obstacles prevent some girls from completing their education.

The gender pay gap could be reduced, the number of women in leadership roles could be increased, and opportunities could be made equitable for women if policies and opportunities were improved for them. Gender-based violence against women is a significant aspect of gender inequality that demands improved legal protection, community engagement, social awareness, and a change in attitudes.

Advocating for and achieving gender equality benefits all Tongans, fostering strong families, promoting economic development, and encouraging a diversity of ideas and opinions.

As leaders and members of the community, it is imperative that we collectively ensure the equal protection of all human rights.

Sincerely,
Lesieli Langi

Addressing growing concerns of illicit drug use in Tonga

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Editor’s Note: This letter is published as part of the author’s university assignment.

Dear Editor,

I am writing to express my grave concern regarding the escalating issue of drug abuse in Tonga, a crisis that directly implicates fundamental human rights, including the right to health, dignity, and security. As a student of human rights at The University of the South Pacific, I am compelled to highlight how this issue undermines the well-being of individuals and communities, particularly youth, and to urge immediate, rights-based interventions

The issue of drug use, particularly among adolescents, extends beyond being a mere public health concern; it also encompasses significant human rights implications. Every person is entitled to health and well-being, but substance abuse undermines that human right and disrupts physical, mental, and emotional welfare.

Drug abuse is not exclusive to Tonga, but due to the small size of the nation, it is even more urgent that we address this issue directly. The rise in addiction has been attributed to a number of factors, including increased drug availability, a lack of knowledge about the dangers of substance use, and a lack of adequate rehabilitation services. Some people use drugs as an escape, but in the long run, this short-term respite only makes things worse.

We need to stop the negative narrative surrounding drug use and instead focus on education and support. Our top priority should be investing in prevention programs in schools, improving access to mental health services, and fostering a culture of care that values rehabilitation over punishment. We need to provide our young people with more resources and guidance to help them incorporate these tools and make informed decisions, and as a society, we must create an environment in which they feel safe asking for help amongst their peers without fear of being criticized.

We need the government and relevant stakeholders to invest in a multifaceted approach—treatment, education, and community support. If given the proper treatment, we can save an addicted individual and, therefore, build a better, more productive society for generations to come.

Thank you for your consideration of this important matter.

Sincerely,
Luisa Finau
Contact info: Luisafinau98@gmail.com
Location: Vaini, Tongatapu

Tongan promoters of $300k pyramid scheme fined in New Zealand 

By
Kalino Latu
-

Three Tongan promoters of the ‘6K Gifting Co-operative’ pyramid scheme have been fined in New Zealand after pleading guilty to breaching fair trading laws.  

Frances Saimone and Patricia Pousini pleaded guilty in the Manukau District Court to charges related to promoting a pyramid scheme.

Saimone, the scheme’s overall leader, was fined $33,306 for her involvement and ordered to pay a reparation of $1500, which was shared between two of the victims.

Pousini, one of the scheme’s main promoters, was fined $10,200 for her involvement.

A third individual, Feleti Halafihi, was found guilty of failing to provide information regarding the scheme and fined $9000.

The New Zealand Commerce Commission is urging consumers to be wary of opportunities that seem too good to be true, after the Manukau District Court decision.
 
The Commission took Saimone and Pousini to court after hundreds of people were recruited into the cash-based gifting scheme known as ‘6K Gifting Co-operative’ (6K) with the promise of a return of up to $6,000. 
 
A third individual, Feleti Halafihi, was found guilty of failing to provide information regarding the scheme. 
 
The scheme was promoted as a ‘family and friends’ group and linked to the tradition of gifting in Pasifika communities, as a way to support each other. 
 
Saimone sought to legitimise it, telling participants, “we are not a pyramid scheme, first of all because a pyramid [sic] is illegal….gifting has been around since Adam & Eve”. 
 
Those who lost money in the scheme say they joined to escape poverty and saw an opportunity to secure a better future for themselves and their children. 
 
“This was an important case for us to take. One of the Commission’s enduring priorities is to protect vulnerable consumer groups in New Zealand,” says Associate Commissioner  Joseph Liava’a. 
 
“We saw with Shelly Cullen’s Lion’s Share how big these schemes can become – and how quickly they can trap victims. In that case, 150,000 participants worldwide lost a total of almost $17 million. 
 
“While ‘6K’ was on a much smaller scale, it has been hard to measure the full financial impact this scheme had on the victims as it was cash based. 
 
“It is estimated that at least 240 people fell victim to this scheme and between $225,000 and $336,750 was invested into the scheme by participants. However, evidence found during our investigation suggests that the scheme may in fact have been larger. 
 
“No matter the size of the scheme, the main concern for us is the impact on the victims. The people who can least afford to, lose money in schemes like these. 
 
“This action and the recent prosecution of Shelly Cullen should serve as a warning to others who promote pyramid schemes,” says Joseph Liava’a. 

Background 

Pyramid schemes are illegal under the Fair Trading Act. They usually involve purchasing a membership or making an upfront payment into schemes that are frequently promoted as “investment opportunities”. 

These schemes are primarily based on recruiting new members rather than selling goods or services to make money. 

Pyramid schemes are unfair to majority of participants, only the few initial people at the top of the pyramid are likely to make money. Earning a financial reward is entirely based on the constant recruitment of others which is likely to be unrealistic for participants. These schemes always run out of recruits and eventually collapse, so most participants will end up losing their money. 

6K Gifting Co-operative 

Ms Frances Saimone and Ms Patricia Pousini promoted the ‘6K Gifting Co-operative’ pyramid scheme to Pasifika communities in South Auckland during 2020 and 2021. 

The scheme was largely promoted at in-person events and through videos and social media posts on Facebook. 

Participants could ‘gift’ $750 individually or, if they did not have enough money to contribute alone, they could form a ‘syndicate’ and invest their pooled resources to gift $750 as a unit. 

Participants who made the initial $750 investment in any given 21-day cycle (initial investor) were required to recruit two new participants in the first week. Those two new participants were each required to invest or ‘gift’ $750 to the scheme, and recruit a further two new people themselves, and so on. 

A total of 14 new members (either directly or indirectly) had to be secured over 21 days, if this wasn’t fulfilled, the initial investor received a smaller return. 

Ms Frances Saimone was overall leader of the scheme. In person events were led by Saimone, she was described in promotional posts on Facebook as the ‘founder’ and ‘banker’ of the scheme. Saimone was fined $33,306 for her involvement in the scheme, and was ordered to pay reparation of $1,500, shared between two of the victims. 

Alongside Saimone, Ms Patricia Pousini was one of the main promoters of the scheme, including at in-person events on at least three occasions; and through Facebook (videos and social media posts) on at least 18 occasions. Pousini was fined $10,200 for her involvement in the scheme. 

The Judge accepted that, were it not for the current financial circumstances of the promoters of this scheme, a much more significant fine would have been appropriate for the conduct. 

Mr Feleti Halafihi was warned for his involvement with 6K and was subsequently issued with a notice requiring him to meet with the Commission and provide information regarding the scheme. He failed to do so. Halafihi was found guilty of failing to comply with a statutory notice issued under section 47G of the Fair Trading Act 1986. Mr Halafihi was fined $9,000. 

EDITORIAL: Tonga’s taxpayers should fear another financial black hole as Pacific Games officials arrive  

By
Kalino Latu
-

EDITORIAL—Mr Lakhan and Chief Executive Andrew Minogue of the South Pacific Games arrived in Tonga last week, signalling the start of official scrutiny of Tonga’s preparations for the 2031 Pacific Games.  

While this might seem like a routine visit, Tongans have every reason to be wary. History suggests that large-scale spending on such events could lead to financial mismanagement, unaccounted costs, and even corruption.    

Just last week, Parliament was informed that the Auditor General found no receipts or records of the spending of the $60 million Covid fund. If such a critical emergency fund could vanish without a trace, what guarantees exist for Pacific Games spending?  

Remember the $120 million Chinese loan for Nuku’alofa’s reconstruction? Reports of mismanagement and questionable fund use still haunt Tonga’s public finances.  

With no strong oversight mechanisms in place, the costs of stadiums, infrastructure, and Games-related projects could spiral out of control, leaving taxpayers to foot the bill for years to come.  

If Tonga’s leaders couldn’t properly account for $60 million in Covid funds, why should anyone trust that millions more for the Pacific Games will be spent responsibly?  

Tonga’s History of Financial Mismanagement  

Tonga’s troubling track record of poor financial oversight, wasted funds, and questionable spending raises serious concerns as Pacific Games officials assess preparations.

As Kaniva News reported previously, Dr Netatua Prescott, former head of the Service Central Unit (SCU), revealed that Tonga routinely returns millions in World Bank funds due to corruption, delays, and incompetence, denying critical projects for the people. Worse, some funds were repaid due to illegal activities during implementation.  

The $400 million roading projects are now mired in legal battles over allegations of nepotism, document falsification, and corruption.

Meanwhile, the MV Niuvakai scandal remains unresolved. In 2014, the government purchased the MV St. Theresa, which was renamed Niuvakai, for TOP $1.37 million. This decision was made despite a critically negative inspection report that highlighted 17 deficiencies in the vessel. Recent estimates suggest that this deal has led to a loss of approximately TOP $750,000 for taxpayers.

If Tonga can’t correctly manage World Bank aid or a simple ferry purchase, how can taxpayers trust that millions in Pacific Games spending won’t vanish into another financial black hole?  

Tonga’s Culture of Secrecy and Lack of Accountability  

The Tongan government has repeatedly operated in the shadows, evading scrutiny even from Parliament. Past leaders have ignored basic transparency, leaving taxpayers in the dark about how their money is spent.  

Former PM Hu’akavameiliku has been accused of running Lulutai Airlines with zero transparency. When Opposition MPs demanded answers in writing, he simply refused to respond, flouting accountability.  

Even official parliamentary procedures failed to force the government to explain its actions, proving how easily leaders sidestep checks and balances. 

If those in power can ignore Parliament and conceal financial dealings, how can Tongans trust that Pacific Games funds won’t disappear the same way? Without transparency, every dollar spent is a risk.  

‘Akilisi Pōhiva revoked the Pacific Games deal previously

Former Prime Minister Akilisi Pohiva made the tough call to pull Tonga out of hosting the 2019 Pacific Games, and his reasoning should ring alarm bells today.

In an exclusive interview with Kaniva News, Pohiva revealed that the proposed budgets submitted to his Cabinet were shockingly vague, with no clear breakdown of some significant costs. 

“The numbers didn’t add up,” he warned, raising serious concerns about where the money would really go.

Pohiva’s revocation of the Games was based on valid reasons aimed at protecting taxpayers. However, Hu’akavameiliku, who has faced serious allegations related to the MV Niuvakai deals and Lulutai Airlines, has finalized an agreement with the Pacific Games to host the event in Tonga in 2031.

Senior Comanchero leader arrested in Auckland

By
Kaniva Staff
-

By 1News Reporters

Police have arrested the last senior Comanchero Motorcycle Gang leader after allegedly importing methamphetamine and cocaine into the country.

Comanchero patch
Comanchero patch (Source: NZ Police )

Last year, police charged nearly ever member of the gang after a years-long probe.

The gang’s national vice president was arrested in the Auckland suburb of Howick yesterday.

The 36-year-old was charged over an investigation into the importation of methamphetamine at the Port of Tauranga last December, and the importation of cocaine into the country earlier this year.

“It will be alleged that this man played a significant role in working across transnational organised criminal groups with these importations,” Police Assistant Commissioner: investigations Paul Basham said.

Every member of the gang’s leadership is now facing serious charges, he said.

“This is a significant milestone and represents years of relentless investigative work to disrupt and hold the Comancheros to account for criminal activity.

“There is no doubt that this sustained enforcement activity has had considerable impact on the gang’s ability to conduct their offending.”

Yesterday’s arrest follows the three major investigations which culminated late last year.

Basham acknowledged the staff in Auckland and the Bay of Plenty who worked on the investigation.

“We have not wavered in enforcing the law with gangs and organised criminal groups who are causing a high level of harm in communities right across this country.”

The man was set to appear in the Auckland District Court today charged with importing methamphetamine, attempted possession of cocaine for supply, and participating in an organised criminal group.

Tongan runner’s sunglasses stunt follows in footsteps of Olympian Josh Kerr 

By
Kalino Latu
-

A Vava‘u student’s decision to wear sunglasses during a 100m race has sparked curiosity, but it’s far from a first in the world of elite athletics.  

When a student from Vava’u sprinted the 100m in sunglasses, Tongan spectators took notice—was it a fashion statement or a performance tactic?

Olympic middle-distance star Josh Kerr famously donned shades while winning the 1500m at the 2023 World Championships, proving that eyewear can be as much about focus as flair.  

As Kerr eyes Paris gold, could Tonga’s up-and-coming runners be taking inspiration from the pros? 

Is Tonga’s next generation of runners taking notes from the best? 

The 2025 Tonga Secondary Schools Athletics Competition began yesterday, 8 April, at Nuku’alofa’s Teufaiva Stadium.

This is the 98th edition of the event.  

The Vava’u student Sōsefo Po’oi turned heads at the Tonga Secondary Schools Athletics Competition by racing the 100m in sunglasses, a move that left many spectators baffled. He won his heat.

“This is weird,” one onlooker remarked, while others admitted they’d “never seen anything like this before.”

But what seemed like an odd fashion choice in Tonga might actually be a tactical inspiration from elite runners like Kerr, who famously wore shades.

Student athletes from across Tongatapu and the outer islands gathered on Tuesday to compete, with the first event being the Junior Girls’ 1500m race (three laps of the track). 

However, the race ended in confusion when the apparent winner, a Mo‘unga ‘Olive College student, stopped at the finish line after two laps, mistakenly believing she had completed the race.  

Track officials confirmed she had one lap remaining, nullifying her lead. ‘Apifo‘ou College was later declared the official winner of the event. 

As Kaniva News reported, the Tonga Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee (TASANOC) has conducted workshops ahead of this year’s competition to educate students on the importance of competing free from illicit drugs.

With Tonga currently facing a drug crisis, Tonga Health is supporting secondary schools in emphasising a healthy, drug-free environment at the 2025 Tonga Secondary Schools Athletics Competition.

The event at Nuku’alofa’s Teufaiva Stadium runs for four days until Friday, 11 April.

‘Never Discussed’: Waugh shuts down Folau’s Lions hopes over Tonga switch 

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Former Wallabies star Israel Folau has expressed his frustration after Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh confirmed he is ineligible for a shock return against the British and Irish Lions next year, reigniting tensions over his controversial 2019 sacking.  

Folau, who was axed over anti-gay social media posts before reaching a confidential settlement with RA, said he was ‘very disappointed’ by the decision, marking the latest clash in their long-running feud. 

Waugh has emphatically ruled out Folau’s potential return, declaring the controversial star’s comeback was “never discussed” due to his switch of international allegiance to Tonga.  

The decision sparked a sharp response from Folau, who called the exclusion “very disappointing” and claimed he would not have spoken publicly about a return if he didn’t believe RA supported his bid, reigniting tensions from his 2019 sacking. 

“Folau later received an apology – and confidential settlement payment – from Rugby Australia after initially seeking up to $14million in damages”, the Mail reported. 

In a recent Instagram post, Folau, who is now based in Japan, said the decision is “very disappointing” adding that he wouldn’t have spoken publicly if he did not believe RA supported his return. 

“I just wanted to address a couple of things in regards to a few media articles that have been floating around the past week in relation to me playing in this Anzac v Lions game later this year and how this all came about,” Folau said on Instagram. 

“I was contacted last week by Jamie Pandaram, who is a journalist from Sydney, and he was in conversations with Phil Waugh, and Phil had told him that he was open to the idea of me being involved in this game if I was interested in that. 

“And so Jamie reached out to a good friend of mine – [former Wallaby] Sekope Kepu – and told him the same thing and made the connection between myself and Jamie. 

In 2020, World Rugby made a decision that allowed players to switch their international allegiance after a three-year break.

Subsequently, Folau announced that he would represent Tonga’s national team, ‘Ikale Tahi, which was at the time coached by former Wallabies star Toutai Kefu. 

Folau, who is of Tongan heritage,  switched allegiance in 2022 in order to represent Tonga. 

1...242526...890Page 25 of 890
© Copyright 2025 Kaniva Tonga News & Entertainment