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Mormon Church stops using Real Tonga’s MA-60 service

By
Kalino Latu
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The Mormon Church in Tonga has told its employees and officials the church would no longer pay air fares for them to travel on Real Tonga’s controversial MA-60 aircraft.

The Mormon Church is one of the largest users of inter-islands air travel.

The MA-60 aircraft was given to Tonga as a gift from China. The aircraft has been involved  in a significant number of accidents in the past few years.

It is not certified to fly in New Zealand, Australia, Europe and the United States.

A person who talked to Kaniva News from Mormon Church head office in Nukuʻalofa on condition of anonymity, said the decision was taken for safety reasons.

“ We have to make sure that any such  equipment used by our employees, leaders and all those at elder level are safe and licensed according to international standard,” the person  said.

“The church is liable for  the safety of its employees.

“We are still using Real Tonga Airline services, but only its Queen and Islander aircraft.”

She said about 50 church officials and leaders flew to and from the outer islands each week.

Kaniva  made several attempts to obtain comment from Real Tonga,  but the airline did not respond to our emails.

In the Tongan Parliament this week Opposition Leader, ‘Akilisi Pohiva asked why the government kept silent while the government-subsidised Real Tonga started to bear the consequences of allowing the MA-60 to fly without New Zealand’s civil aviation’s approval.

It has been  revealed the airline has refunded thousands of pa’anga as a result of travellers withdrawal from using the MA-60 aircraft.

The Opposition Leader’s statements were quickly attacked by the Prime Minister and his ministers, who told the House to move on and discuss something more important and said  the government is working on it.

Real Tonga chief executive officer Tevita Palu told the local media he was not involved in the MA-60 deal and that he only knew about it after it was about to be brought to Tonga.

New Zealand has withheld $10 million of aid for Tonga’s tourism industry since the Tongan Government rejected its offer to help  with aviation.

New Zealand’s Foreign Minister, Murray McCully, offered  to fund aviation safety experts to go to Tonga to help deal with the issue.

New Zealand has warned its citizens not to fly in the MA60 while they were in Tonga.

The aircraft, which is based on the Soviet-era Antonov  26,  is not certified to fly in New Zealand. It is not certified by the European Safety agency, the US Federal Aviation Administration or the Civil Aviation Safety Authority in Australia.

In June the government of Myanmar (Burma) grounded its MA60s after two accidents involving the aircraft. The aircraft has been involved in 11 serious incidents since 2009.

Maheʻuliʻuli Sandhurst Tupouniua becomes permanent representative to United Nations

By
Kalino Latu
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Tonga has elected Maheʻuliʻuli Sandhurst Tupouniua as its new Permanent Representative to the United Nations. He presented his credentials to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on August 19.

Until his appointment, Mr. Tupouniua served as Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Trade during 2012, and Secretary for Foreign Affairs in 2011.  From 2009 to 2010, he was Ambassador to China.

Between 2004 and 2008, Mr. Tupouniua was Counsellor and Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, before which he served as Senior Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from 1999 to 2004.  He served as Consul General in San Francisco from 1992 to 1996, and as Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from 1990 to 1992.

Mr. Tupouniua holds a master’s in foreign affairs and trade from the University of Monash/Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra, Australia, as well as a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the University of Phoenix in the United States and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Auckland in New Zealand.

Born on 15 July 1966, he is married and had three children.

Lord Tuʻihaʻateiho's trial postponed

By
Kalino Latu
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A court hearing Monday for the acting speaker of Tonga’s parliament Lord Tuʻi Haʻateiho has been adjourned to September 30 to allow the Magistrate Salesi Mafi  time to go through the legal documents.

The Ha’apai Noble’s Representative, who is charged with illegal possession of a firearm, appeared in court on Monday, August 26.

On the following day August 27 he had to act as chairman of the House as the Speaker Lord Fakafanua was leaving for overseas.

However Lord Tu’iha’ateiho  stood up and told the House he would resign as acting speaker citing feeling that people lose trust in him because of his pending court case.

His resignation shocked the House as many particularly the opposition did not expect any such voluntary resignation to come from the nobility as they are elected by only 33 nobles and not by the people.

The reaction of the members of the opposition party was another shock with the representative of Tongatapu 10 emotionally reminded Lord Tu’iha’ateiho not to resign because he has the right to be presumed innocent until proved guilty according to law.

It was the Opposition Party’s charter  made public since 2010 that states members must consistently supportive of any action that could help deter and remove from office government leaders and all politicians who are allegedly involved in any improprieties and corruption.

The House resumed in the afternoon hours but no further discussion on the acting speaker’s resignation and Lord Tu’iha’ateiho  was still the chairperson for the day. No further official press release from Parliament to confirm his resignation.

The Monday’s court adjournment was the last in a series of 22 deferrals made for Tu’iha’ateiho’s trial since his first court appearance on March 2012.

14 year old Malia Pelenatita Kolo’s body returned to family

By
Kalino Latu
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The body of the 14 year old girl Malia Pelenatita Kolo allegedly died from body injuries on August 16 has been returned to her family.

Kolo was reportedly rushed to Vaiola Hospital on August 15 after she was found lying helplessly by a visitor in a house in Nuku’alofa with bruises and severe body injuries. She died on August 16.

Post modem report says Kolo had sustained serious injuries and bruises. Police  released no further details  as the matter is now with the courts.

Three accused for the teenage girl’s death are her mother Fifita ‘Ofa, 34 with her brother Tomasi ‘Ofa, 37. They both charged with manslaughter, while a 42 year old woman Mohulamu Toumohuni is charged with aiding the ‘Ofas.

The mother was also reported to have been previously charged for violence against her own children.  She and her former husband, Kolo’s father have divorced.

The three accused appeared at the Nuku’alofa Magistrate’s Court on August 26 and were released on bail until September 30.

Tongan version for the New Zealand’s National Anthem

By
Kalino Latu
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Thousands of Tongans all over Aotearoa will for the first time fully grasp the sacredness, sense of patriotism and belonging bestowed on New Zealand’s National anthem this Sunday, September 1 when a group of Tongans students will publicly perform the National Anthem in Tongan language.

It is part of the Tongan Language Week celebrations that runs from 1-7   September, which will be the main highlight at Pasifika Education Centre but organizers expected “this collaboration, schools, workplaces and churches around  New Zealand can ‘have a go’ at singing this anthem both during and  beyond Tongan Language Week”.

The collaboration has resulted in all five verses of the New Zealand national anthem being translated into Tongan. Alongside the
translation is the unique Tongan numbered notes.

Pasifika Education Centre CEO, Christine Nurminen says: “The Te Reo Maori and English version of the New Zealand national  anthem is known by generations of Tongans. Inspiration has been drawn  from both versions. To hear the national anthem sung in a Pacific language – is exciting”.

Choir rehearsals are underway with representatives from different  Tongan student groups from universities and tertiary institutes around  Auckland. Choirmaster Lea’aesola Vuna leads each rehearsal encouraging  correct pronunciation, pitch and reading of the unique Tongan musical  notes.

The first public performance of the anthem will take place as part of  a community programme on Sunday 1 September 2013 at the AIS St Helen’s  campus from 5.00pm.

Recording of the anthem will take place on Thursday 5th September at  the PEC office in Manukau City from 6.00pm. The recording will provide  an opportunity for the adult learners enrolled in PEC classes to take part.

In the spirit of the theme, it is expected that radio stations, online  communities will share the anthem through their networks.

“For NZTTSA, this collaboration has provided a learning opportunity  for the diverse Tongan students in different tertiary institutions to  come together and celebrate our unique Tongan music” says Tupoutu’a  Tu’akoi from the NZTTSA.

‘Alisi Tatafu, who also supports this collaboration says:

“We appreciate PEC approaching our national network. It makes sense to  consult and include youth and existing student associations as part of  a collective community effort to share Tongan language”.

Christine believes that this recreation is a genuine effort to  acknowledge the Tongans culture in New Zealand.

“Tongan values like love, respect, loyalty, faith and identity  resonant with other Pacific and diverse communities living in
Aotearoa”, she says

Martin Luther King: “I have a Dream……” 50th anniversary

By
Kalino Latu
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Press Release Cadbury

Tomorrow is International Dream Day, a day of observation based on the values of creativity, collaboration and contribution. It is the first ever global day of observance that honours the dreamer in all of us and is celebrated with live, local, and viral events worldwide.

International Dream Day creates a magical synergy with Cadbury’s new initiative encouraging New Zealanders to celebrate the magic of their dreams. People are encouraged to share their dreams on cadburydreams.co.nz and Cadbury will soon be bringing some to life. Cadbury want New Zealanders to dream because good things happen when you go after your dreams.

Psychologist Barry Kirker believes, “Without dreams, individuals lack inspiration and aspiration. Read a biography about any famous person and you can see how they had a dream they worked towards.

“Even if a dream does not lead to actions and obtainments, it can be enjoyed for the pleasant thoughts and feelings it creates and a reminder of what it means to be alive. Imagine seeing a dream come true and what it feels like to experience it happening. Then think about what steps you need to take to make this dream happen.

“It is good for people to have both a practical dream, like having their own house with a veggie garden or having their own business; as well as an extraordinary dream, like climbing Mt Everest or having lunch with their favourite celebrity. Dreams involving loved ones can be particularly satisfying and powerful. People should allow themselves to dream on International Dream Day and share it at Cadbury.co.nz,” says psychologist Barry Kirker.

2013 International Dream Day marks the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King’s, “I have a dream” speech, illustrating the huge contribution dreams can make to the world. In the words of Eleanor Roosevelt, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”

Check out New Zealander’s dreams at the gallery of dreams on Cadburydreams.co.nz.

Halatau Naitoko: Police apologise for revealing details of compensation package

By
Kalino Latu
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Fresh failings over the police  shooting of Halatau Naitoko, who was shot dead  when police were pursuing gunman Stephen McDonald along the Auckland’s northwestern motorway in January 2009, were officially admitted today Tuesday 27 when police breached  a confidentiality agreement in a compensation deal they made with the teenager’s mother, Ivoni Fuimaono.

A compensation package included $100,000 was initially offered to Naitoko’s family shortly after he died on conditions that the mother would “not to reveal” the name of the shooter to anyone no matter who they are, Fuimaono told Fairfax Media today.

The report also said “Police made her sign documents promising not to reveal the name, and if she did she could go to jail for three months”.

Police agreed “the original $100,000 would still be kept confidential. It was paid on the condition that she did not reveal the payment to friends, family, media or even her own lawyer”.

“Only the total sum of $225,000 was meant to be disclosed yesterday”.

But police yesterday police announced they have paid $250,000 to Fuimaono and they went further and reveaedl that there was a payment of $100,000 made to Fuimaono shortly after Naitoko died referring to the $100,000 that was agreed not to reveal.

Mrs Fuimaono  and his lawyer, Mr Pigeon said they had lunch today with police and “A lot was said. They (the police representative) expressed their very deep regret at what was apparently a breakdown in communication and she’s a very gracious woman and she’s accepted that and has instructed me to take no further action.

“Police acknowledged that a mistake occurred, we accepted that it was accidental and Ivoni has decided to continue with the settlement and move on.”

NZTRFA, Ashley Tonga team up to promote rugby tournament

By
Kalino Latu
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Officials and members of the New Zealand Tongan Rugby Football Association (NZTRFA) held a meet and greet on Saturday 24 with the drag queen diva and x factor entertainer Ashley Tonga to announce their joint effort in promoting NZTRFA upcoming rugby union tournament in September.

NZTRFA is a newly established body to promote local Tongan rugby players and to hold annual events to mark the heroic achievements of the  Tongan Ex-All Blacks rugby players,  Ikale Tahi and Tongan players in other New Zealand professional rugby teams according to the president ‘Emosi Koloto.

Its Seven’s tournament will kick off on September 7. Nine teams have already listed their names to join the tournament are Folaha, Manurewa, Vaini, Fasimoeafi, Mauna Kiekie, Tofoa, Kau Leka mei he South, Kolofo’ou and Saineha.   A $200 registration fee is required for each team.

Koloto warmly welcomed Ashley to the meeting and said he was inspired by her performance at the New Zealand X Factor 2013. He was thankful Ashley accepted his invitation to join NZTRFA with her talent as he knew for sure it would help spice up their upcoming events.

Ashley told the meeting last Saturday she was willing to help NZTFA’s fundraising.

“ I am happy to be part of your team and  do whatever I can do to help. I am proud to be Tongan and that is why I am here tonight,” Ashley said.

NZTRFA is planning to start the tournament in August 31 with a Fiefia Night  followed by a Prize Giving Night on September 14 where Ashley Tonga will hit the stage as the main performer of the night.

In June NZTRFA held a dinner at the Manurewa Rugby League Football Club as part of their annual programme  to acknowledge  Tongan rugby stars . Ex-All Blacks Charles Riechaelmann and Pita Alatini attended.

NZTRA was established on March 2013.

$225k compo following death of Halatau Naitoko

By
Kalino Latu
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The New Zealand Police today announced they have agreed to a compensation package with the family of Halatau Naitoko who was tragically killed on Auckland’s north western motorway in January 2009.

Mr Naitoko’s family will receive compensation of $100,000 for the hardship and suffering caused by the 17 year old accidental death. The family will also receive $25,000 towards their legal costs. This is in addition to a payment of $100,000 the family received shortly after Halatau’s death. In total the compensation package is $225,000.

‘Police deeply and sincerely regret the accidental shooting of Mr Naitoko”, Assistant Commissioner Allan Boreham said. “For our officers, who dedicate their working lives to helping people, Halatau’s death was everything they were trying to prevent.”

“We offer once again our deepest sympathies to his family. They have conducted themselves with dignity and courage throughout this ordeal and we are truly sorry for their loss.

“The initial payment we made to Mr Naitoko’s family was kept confidential until the two parties agreed on a final settlement. It can now be disclosed as part of the overall compensation package.”

Mr Naitoko was killed when he was accidentally struck by a bullet as the Armed Offenders Squad apprehended Stephen McDonald on Auckland’s north western motorway on 23 January 2009.

Police had no option but to take action to stop Mr McDonald as he attempted to jump on a moving truck while aiming his gun at two officers.

Mr McDonald was injured and incapacitated but tragically Mr Naitoko, who was driving a van that was in the background of this moving incident, was hit by a bullet and killed.

“Police were dealing with a mobile, unpredictable, drug fuelled gunman who had threatened members of the public with a firearm and had fired at Police. There was a real threat to public safety”, Mr Boreham said. “To this day the staff involved remain devastated by Halatau Naitoko’s tragic death”.

In August 2011 Coroner Gordon Matenga concluded the shooting of Mr Naitoko was a tragic accident.

This finding was supported by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) who ruled that Police took appropriate and immediate action to subdue an offender whose objective was to evade arrest by any means.

Mr Boreham acknowledged that while both authorities concluded Mr Naitoko’s death was an accident Police made mistakes during the pursuit of Mr McDonald.

“We have made changes in line with the recommendations made by the Independent Police Conduct Authority”, Mr Boreham said.

“These steps will reduce the chances of another tragic accident occurring during an armed pursuit.”

Following the IPCA report several recommendations have been adopted include greater resourcing for the Armed Offenders Squad in Auckland, more training for communication centre staff and clarity on the role Police helicopters play during pursuits.

Mr Boreham paid tribute to the courage and leadership shown by Halatau’s mother Ivoni Fuimaono since her son’s death.

“Mrs Fuimaono is a woman of great standing within the South Auckland community both through her church and her work with youth programmes”, Mr Boreham said.

“She and her family have handled these tragic circumstances with great humility and dignity”.

 

Dr Ngongo Kioa appointed as new Reserve Bank Governor

By
Kalino Latu
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A former Government of Tonga diplomat and High Commissioner to the United Kingdom has been appointed as the governor for the National Reserve Bank of Tonga.

In a statement, the Chairman and the Board of Directors of the National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Steve Edwards announced the appointment of Dr. Sione Ngongo Kioa as the new Governor of the National Reserve Bank.  It says the appointment will be for a term of 5 years effective from 21 August 2013.

As the 4th Governor of the National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Dr Kioa succeeds Mrs Siosi Cocker Mafi, who completed her 10- year term as Governor on the 5th July 2013. The principal objectives of the Reserve Bank of Tonga are to maintain internal and external monetary stability and promote a sound and efficient financial system.

Dr Kioa brings with him a wealth of more than 31 years of experience. Prior to joining the National

Reserve Bank of Tonga as Governor, Dr Kioa has served as a Board Director for the National Reserve Bank of Tonga and Ports Authority of Tonga. He is the owner and the Principal Consultant for Kioa

Consults, Dr Kioa has more than 10 years of consultancy experience, mostly with the Australian Government (AusAID).

During his 7 years as the Tonga’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom from 2006 to 2012, Dr Kioa was the Chairman for the Board of Governors of the Commonwealth Secretariat, Tonga’s Representative to the World Trade Organisation and the Ambassador to the European Union. Dr Kioa’s international experience also includes being an Assistant to the Executive Director of the International Monetary Fund from 1999 to 2001. Within the Government Civil Service, Dr Kioa held senior positions including more than three years as Deputy Secretary for Finance, Statistician at the Statistics Department, Project Economist and Deputy Director for the Central Planning Department. In the private Sector, Dr Kioa was once the President for the Tonga Chamber of Commerce whilst being the CEO for the Leiola Group Ltd from 2002 to 2005.

Dr Kioa has a Doctor of Philosophy in Macroeconomics, a Master of Economics and a Graduate Diploma from the Australian National University in Australia. He also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Economics from the University of the South Pacific.

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