EDITOR’S NOTE:This commentary was edited to reflect the fact that the response from the Deputy Clerk was meant to say that the Parliament using the circular was a normal means of communication.
COMMENTARY: It is time for the practice of using circulars to make decisions in Parliament was reviewed.
Circulars should only be used on agendas that are urgent.
They should not be used on important issues such as pay rises for Parliamentarians.
Such issues should be properly debated in the House so that they can be recorded in the minutes for the public to read and also broadcast for people to listen.
As Kaniva News reported yesterday, the government’s use of a circular to canvas MPs’ views on a pay rise has been called into question.
However, the Legislative Assembly’s Deputy Clerk, Dr Sione Vikilani, said the circular was a normal means of communication approved by the House and any information sent through it was legal.
In Tongan he said: “Ko e tohi ‘avetakai ko e founga ngāue pe ‘oku ‘ataa ke ngaue’aki pea ‘oku ‘ikai ke ta’efakalao ha tu’utu’uni ‘i hono fakahoko ‘i he founga koia”.
Dr Vikilani did not respond to a question asking why a circular was used to ballot the pay hike and not a face-to-face voting in the House.
In 2018 Tonga’s former Prime Minister, the late ‘Akilisi Pōhiva, warned that using circulars in Parliament was open to abuse.
Speaking to Kaniva News, Pōhiva said the use of circulars was normal but did not allow for discussion.
MPs, especially the Opposition, could not debate whatever agenda was being circulated.
He said that traditionally Speakers and the Noble’s representatives, who were mostly the majority in the House, used it to ballot issues they wanted to be decided in their favour.
The late Prime Minister’s comments were made during an interview in 2018 about the decision to approve an invitation from the Tonga Rugby League for a Parliament delegation to attend a match.
The decision was adopted through a circular, by collective resolution of Parliament.
Prime Minister Pōhiva’s concerns are just as relevant today as they were four years ago.
Debates and voting in the House must be open so that all citizens can see how their MPs voted and debate can be held in public.
This was illustrated in our story yesterday when Dr Vikilani would not say how MPs voted on the circular.
A Parliament with secrets is not truly democratic.
Sixteen people have been arrested over their alleged involvement in one of the country’s largest drug smuggling syndicates, recruiting Kiwis as young as 19 years old through social media.
Customs alleged 252kg of methamphetamine had been transported on return trips to Malaysia between October 2025 and January 2026.
The drugs were allegedly mainly carried in passenger luggage.
Customs said the three-month investigation, assisted by police, uncovered the syndicate who had been recruiting young New Zealanders through social media.
Search warrants were executed yesterday in Rotorua, Hamilton and Auckland, leading to the arrest of 11 people aged between 19 and 31.
Methamphetamine found in luggage. (Source: Customs)
Customs said those arrested are alleged to be linked to the syndicate as couriers, recruiters, and organisers.
Five arrests earlier in the year as part of the same operation brought the total number to 16, it said.
Customs investigations manager Dominic Adams said the arrests had effectively dismantled a significant drug smuggling syndicate, but there would be others like it, and New Zealanders needed to be aware of the dangers and consequences.
“This is a tactic we know is used by organised criminal groups worldwide. They will recruit suitcase couriers through social media to do the legwork for them, offering money in exchange for travelling overseas and bringing back drugs in their luggage.”
Adams said it had been ruining young people’s lives in many countries, and New Zealand was “unfortunately not immune”.
Cash found during a search warrant. (Source: Customs)
“We want young New Zealanders to be aware of the consequences. Customs urges you not to sacrifice future freedoms for the promise of fast money and free travel. Drug couriers will face a long time in prison, as well as jeopardise future employment opportunities and international travel – it is not worth the risk.”
Suspicions about drug smuggling could be reported by calling 0800 937 768, or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
An Air New Zealand flight scheduled to arrive in Tonga in the early hours of ANZAC Day has been cancelled, disrupting travel for passengers heading to Nukuʻalofa.
Air New Zealand flight NZ0977, also operating under Singapore Airlines codeshare SQ4285, was due to arrive at Fuaʻamotu International Airport at 12.45am on Saturday, 25.
While the airline has yet to issue an official explanation for the cancellation, Kaniva News understands—based on information circulating on social media—that an incident at Fuaʻamotu Airport may have temporarily blocked the runway, preventing the aircraft from landing.
Details surrounding the reported runway incident remain limited, and it is unclear how long the runway was closed or whether other flights were affected.
Kaniva News has sought clarification from Air New Zealand and airport authorities regarding the cause of the incident and any impact on upcoming flights.
Passengers have been advised to check directly with their airline for rebooking information and further updates.
A former Tongan rugby player facing serious sexual charges in New Zealand has lost interim name suppression, allowing his identity to be made public.
Taumuʻa Lui Naeata, 32, is charged with six counts of sexual violation, including one charge of rape and five charges of unlawful sexual connection.
The alleged offending is reported to have occurred on December 8, 2024, in Dunedin.
All six charges relate to a single complainant, according to Stuff. Naeata has entered not guilty pleas to each of the charges.
Naeata had previously been granted interim name suppression, but that suppression has now lapsed.
The former professional rugby player spent six years playing club rugby in Japan before returning to New Zealand.
Ahead of the 2025 Super Rugby season, Stuff described Naeata as a “wildcard selection,” noting his size and overseas experience.
Weighing approximately 118 kilograms, the loose forward made three appearances off the bench for Otago during the 2024 National Provincial Championship (NPC) season.
Nukuʻalofa, Tonga — The People’s Representative for the Niua 17 constituency, Lataʻifangataʻa Tangimana, will continue to serve as a Member of the Legislative Assembly pending a final decision by the Court of Appeal, following a stay of execution granted by the Supreme Court.
MP Lata’ifaingata’a Tangimana
Tangimana was convicted of electoral bribery by the Supreme Court on 24 March 2026, following findings that he distributed fish to voters in September 2025, and has recently resigned as Minister of Finance.
The Legislative Assembly confirmed this morning that the execution of a certificate declaring Tangimana’s election void has been formally stayed, meaning he will not be unseated at this time.
The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly received a certificate on 9 April 2026 from the Honourable Justice Garlick KC, certifying that the Supreme Court had declared the Niua 17 parliamentary election void as a result of an election petition, CV54/2025 Finau v Tangimana.
Following receipt of the certificate, a notice was issued on 13 April 2026 informing Members of Parliament that the Legislative Assembly would meet on 27 April 2026. The sole purpose of that meeting was to unseat the People’s Representative for Niua 17 in accordance with the Supreme Court’s ruling.
However, the Legislative Assembly later received a further letter from Justice Garlick KC on Monday, 20 April 2026, advising of a court ruling dated 11 April 2026 that granted a stay of execution of the certificate issued on 9 April.
The stay of execution effectively pauses the enforcement of the Supreme Court decision while the matter is under appeal. The appeal has now been formally filed with the Court of Appeal, which is scheduled to convene in July 2026.
As a result of the stay, the Legislative Assembly confirmed that the meeting scheduled for 27 April 2026 has been cancelled, and that Hon. Tangimana will remain in his parliamentary seat until the appeal process is concluded.
“Pursuant to the Court Ruling dated 11 April 2026, the Legislative Assembly will stay the execution of the Certificate issued by the Court on 9 April 2026,” the press release stated. “This means that the Legislative Assembly will not unseat the People’s Representative for Niua 17 from his parliamentary seat until a decision is made by the Court of Appeal.”
Nukuʻalofa, Tonga — The official opening of the new government headquarters in Tonga has reportedly been postponed after King Tupou VI raised concerns about the land on which the building stands.
The newly completed Tonga Meteorological Service and National Emergency Management Office (TMS/NEMO) headquarters at Matatoa, funded under the World Bank–supported Pacific Resilience Program (PREP).
The development comes amid an ongoing pattern of tensions between the Monarch and recent administrations, which have previously included the dissolution of Parliament, formal criticism of government and parliamentary conduct, and a declaration of no confidence in the government.
The opening ceremony, which was scheduled to take place in February and was expected to be officiated by the King, has been delayed due to unresolved issues relating to the lease of His Majesty’s land at Matatoa, where the new office complex has been constructed.
Details of the lease dispute have not yet been publicly clarified.
According to reports in local Tongan media, the King has allegedly expressed his dissatisfaction with aspects of the land lease arrangement in a letter reportedly addressed to the relevant authorities.
The building houses the headquarters of the Tonga Meteorological Service and the National Emergency Management Office (TMS/NEMO), a key component of the Pacific Resilience Program (PREP) Tonga Project.
Attempts to obtain comment from the relevant authorities were unsuccessful.
Disaster Resilience Milestone Reached
The government led by Hu’akavameiliku signed the construction contract for the headquarters in 2023, marking a major step forward for disaster preparedness and climate resilience in the Kingdom.
At the time, the government described the signing as a significant milestone for the PREP Tonga Project, following months of discussions, negotiations, delays, and logistical challenges. The project aims to strengthen Tonga’s capacity to manage natural hazards and climate-related risks, particularly in light of the country’s vulnerability to cyclones, earthquakes, and volcanic activity, it said.
The PREP Tonga Project was funded by the World Bank as part of its broader support for disaster risk management and climate resilience across the Pacific region. The project focuses on improving early warning systems, emergency response coordination, and institutional capacity.
The design and supervision of the TMS/NEMO headquarters were undertaken by Erasito Consultants Limited, a Fiji-owned engineering consultancy firm, while construction was carried out by local contractor Puloka Construction Limited.
Nukuʻalofa – The Ministry of Lands has issued a public notice inviting members of the public to come forward if they wish to dispute land that was returned to the government following legal rulings, offering affected individuals an opportunity to formally challenge those outcomes.
Seputy Prime Minister Dr Taniela Fusimalohi
The development comes amid an ongoing investigative reform by the Ministry into alleged corruption and abuse in land dealings, which officials say could lead to former and current staff members—and members of the public—being brought to justice.
As Kaniva News has previously reported, the Ministry has been among the most frequently criticised government departments, often drawing public complaints and dissatisfaction.
Past coverage by this outlet relating to the Ministry has consistently generated strong reactions on social media, with many readers sharing their personal experiences and concerns about its services.
In a notice shared publicly by Taniela Fusimalohi, the Minister of Lands, the Ministry clarified that the call relates to town allotments and hereditary land allotments that were returned to the government as a result of court decisions or other judicial or administrative processes.
The Minister said individuals who experienced such land returns and believe the legal rulings were not appropriately applied in their specific cases may now submit written disputes for review.
The Ministry has provided a dedicated email address for submissions and inquiries — complaints@lands.gov.to — as part of what it describes as a process to allow affected landholders to raise objections and seek clarification over past decisions made following legal rulings.
Land Law Timeframes
The Ministry did not specify how many cases may fall under the notice, nor did it outline a deadline for submissions.
The announcement also raises questions about how the law’s time limits on land disputes may apply in such cases.
Under Section 170 of the Tonga Land Act, legal action over land disputes is generally subject to a strict 10‑year limitation period, starting from when the right to bring the action first arose.
The provision is intended to provide certainty and finality in land ownership, but it remains unclear whether—and how—it may affect individuals now seeking to dispute land returns that occurred years earlier following legal rulings.
However, past court decisions indicate that the statutory time limit has generally been applied only to actions brought before the courts, suggesting that land returns processed outside the court system may not be subject to the same restriction.
All Blacks back Leicester Fainga’anuku has been given a shock start at flanker for the Crusaders.
Typically a centre or wing, Fainga’anuku has been named in the loose forwards for Friday night’s Super Rugby clash with the Waratahs.
Coach Rob Penney said the 26-year-old has been asking to have a crack at openside.
“Leicester’s been keen to explore that opportunity,” Penney said.
“This stadium felt like the right place to do it. He loves big environments, loves pressure moments, and we feel he’ll add real value against this opposition.”
Crusaders’ Leicester Fainga’anuku in action against the Chiefs. Photo: DJ Mills
Friday’s sold-out match against the Waratahs will kick off this weekend’s Super Round in Christchurch and will be the Crusaders first game at the city’s new Te Kaha Stadium after 14 years at their “temporary” home in Addington.
“It’s been worth the wait,” Penney said.
“The boys have already sort of produced the level of emotion out on the field. They are excited. You can see there’s a lot of bubble and squeak about so that’s an indicator that the boys are really looking forward to unleashing out there.
“I think for the public it’s such a special place already and once it’s full of people and they get a real feel for the experience within a fantastic stadium, it’ll just grow with momentum as the games unfold I’m sure.”
Fainga’anuku said it will be a special moment running out onto the turf at Te Kaha for the first time.
‘The heart of the city’
“It’s real beautiful and a great representation of our region,” Fainga’anuku said.
“This place has become the heart of the city, and it’s something our people deserve.”
The Crusaders are sixth in the standings following back to back losses in Australia, to the Reds and Force, and Penney said the clash with the Waratahs has a do or die feeling about it.
“Probably two weeks ago started to feel like must wins. So we’ve struggled a little bit,” Penney said.
“We’re leaking too many points…Our balance in our game is not quite right, but we’ve got a great group and they’re working hard, coaches working hard, trying to rectify it and you know this could just be what is needed to tip us in the right direction to get us some momentum.”
Crusaders’ head coach Rob Penney. Photo: Derek Morrison
Penney said defence has been an issue for his side all season.
“Our defence is just not as solid as it needs to be and if you’re not dominating in those areas it’s much harder to get turnovers and reward for your effort. We seem to put little phases together of really good work and then let ourselves down with a bit of sloppiness.
“It’s a bit of a disease we’ve had all year and Toddy’s (assistant coach Todd Blackadder) working really hard and the defence group are very mindful of it and the messaging’s been great and boys just have to apply now.”
Heavy machinery, marine equipment and construction crews have been mobilised at the Fangaʻuta Lagoon site, marking the start of on‑site works for Tonga’s long‑awaited new bridge.
Construction crews and heavy equipment are now in place at the Fangaʻuta Lagoon waterfront, signalling the commencement of on‑site works for the long‑awaited new bridge. Photo/Tupou Tertiary Institute (Facebook)
The construction of the 720‑metre Fangaʻuta Lagoon Bridge is part of a major US$97 million infrastructure project funded by the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank.
The project is designed to strengthen the key transport link between Nukuʻalofa and the eastern side of Tongatapu, while also improving traffic flow, emergency evacuation routes, and climate resilience.
The project is highly anticipated—not only because it is the first of its kind in Tonga, but also because it is expected to ease the long‑standing traffic congestion that residents have endured for years when travelling to and from Nukuʻalofa.
The commencement of construction has already drawn educational interest, with students taking part in a field trip to the site, travelling by boat from ʻUmusī to Folaha and gaining a firsthand view of the scale and investment involved in the project.
Photos shared on Facebook by a field‑trip class from Tupou Tertiary Institute showed students witnessing the dramatic transformation of the surrounding environment as construction got underway.
A caption accompanying the photos, written in Tongan, said: “It was a pleasure taking my class on a field trip to the bridge construction site. We started from ʻUmusī and travelled by boat to Folaha. The students were amazed to witness such a large‑scale project and the level of investment involved.”
The news comes after an ancient cemetery in Folaha was recently excavated to clear the path for a new access road to the long‑awaited Fangaʻuta Lagoon Bridge.
The new bridge is expected to be completed by the end of 2028 or early 2029.
Police were called to Manurewa Railway Station at 1.20am after receiving reports that a person had been stabbed multiple times.
A man has been arrested after allegedly stabbing a person who was waiting for a bus multiple times during an attempted robbery in Auckland early this morning.
Police were called to Manurewa Railway Station at 1.20am after receiving reports that a person had been stabbed.
Detective Senior Sergeant Michele Gillespie said the victim was waiting for a bus when they were approached by a person, who they did not know.
“The offender has then allegedly stabbed the victim multiple times, before unsuccessfully attempting to steal their backpack,” she said.
“A member of the public has seen the assault occurring, and has driven towards the scene, causing the offender to flee.”
St John said it responded with an ambulance, an operations manager, and a rapid response vehicle.
“One patient was assessed by the crew at the scene and transported to Middlemore Hospital in a serious condition.”
Officers deployed a police dog and located the offender nearby, where he was arrested.
Gillespie thanked members of the public who came to the aid of the victim prior to the arrival of emergency services.
A 24-year-old man will appear in Manukau District Court today, charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
By Lucy CorryLife, Editor, rnz and is republished with permission
Not sure what to do at the Dawn Service? We answer all the questions you were too embarrassed to ask.
The Dawn Service has been part of Anzac Day commemorations across New Zealand since 1939. The service, which traditionally begins with a military parade, is a formal way to honour New Zealanders killed in combat, as well as servicemen and women both returned and still serving.
Attendance at dawn services has grown hugely in recent years, but if you’ve never been to one it can be a bit daunting (even if you find it easy to get up pre-dawn on a public holiday).
Don’t worry, we’re here for you. RSA spokesperson Rachel Riley has bravely answered all the questions we had about the Dawn Service but were too embarrassed to ask.
What time do Anzac Day services start? If I sleep through the alarm, is it ok to turn up a bit late?
Dawn services usually start around 5.45 – 6am, with civic services kicking off around 10am although it does vary depending on the part of the country you are in. Your local council will have information on the start time and location of the services in your area.
In the finest military tradition, attendees should be at the service five minutes before it starts… but we know that in the real world alarm clocks fail, kids won’t get their coats on, and car parks can be hard to find – so it’s ok to turn up a little bit late.
What about if I’ve been out late the night before? Should I roll through on my way home or is it better to stay away?
If you’re able to be quiet and respectful of the service, you’re more than welcome to roll through on your way home. But if you’re at the loud “I love you man” stage of your night out, it might be better to find another way to commemorate this Anzac Day.
The crowd at the dawn service at the Pukeahu National War Memorial ParkDom Thomas
Is it ok to take photos or video?
It’s fine to take photos or videos from your position in the crowd – just make sure you’re not obscuring the view of those around you.
Is it poor form to do an Instagram or TikTok from the service so I can show off to my mates that I was there?
Why not bring your mates along with you? But if you can’t get them out of bed, there are no restrictions on doing social media posts from the service as long as you are not providing commentary that will disrupt those around you, and that your filming does not obscure anyone’s view.
Are there specific times to sit or stand, like in church?
There are parts of the service that require people to be standing. But don’t worry, it won’t come as a surprise – there are handy prompts given during the service for when this will be needed.
Poppy the dog was a special guest at the 2022 Anzac Day service in Mt AlbertRNZ / Jordan Bond
If an Anzac Day service is outside, can I bring my dog?
Your (well-behaved) four-legged friend is welcome at any outdoor service provided that the local rules for the location permit it.
What about my kids? They’re too young to legally leave at home alone but they’re not very good at standing still and being quiet. Will they ruin the atmosphere?
Our tamariki are an important part of Anzac Day Commemorations and are welcome at all services. We love seeing them front and centre in the crowd. But we also know that some children can be loud and wriggly when made to stand still for long periods of time – so if you think your child might need a bit more stimulation, there is often space at the back of services that allows children to run around without disrupting the event.
RNZ / Andrew McRae
Can anyone lay a wreath? If I’m bringing one from home do I have to wait for all the dignitaries to lay theirs first, or is it ok to turn up with it any time I like?
Absolutely anyone can lay a wreath at an Anzac Day Service, but there is a protocol around this. As part of the service, local dignitaries and community groups are introduced by name and invited to lay a wreath. Once that has been completed, members of the public will be invited forward for their turn. Normally a line will be formed to ensure the wreath laying remains orderly, so just follow the instructions of the marshals. When it’s your turn to lay the wreath don’t just dump and run – lay the wreath gently, take a step back, reflect on the meaning of the day and then move back to your spot in the crowd.
What do I wear? Can I turn up in my PJs and a hoodie (come on, it’s early in the morning!) or is that being disrespectful?
An Anzac Day service is a form of military funeral which should provide some guidance on how people are expected to dress. But we’d much rather have people turn up to commemorate in clothes they are comfortable (and warm!) in than stay away because they haven’t got the right gear. While we’d prefer a tidy standard of dress, if getting there in your PJs is your only option – we’ll still be glad to see you.
Is it ok to wear a hat if it’s cold, or should I take it off as a sign of respect?
Hats are A-OK. Beanies are encouraged if it’s cold, but we’d ask that there are no offensive slogans on any headwear worn to the services.
RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Speaking of what to wear, I’ve got my great-grandad’s medals. Can I wear them? If so, where do I wear them, on the left or on the right?
Wearing a family member’s medals is a wonderful way to remember them and commemorate their service. Medals earned by family members should be worn on the right-hand side. Only medals that were earned by the person wearing them should be worn on the left-hand side.
What about medals earned by servicemen and women from other countries?
Another person’s medals should only be worn if they were either related to you or have an important connection to you or your whānau. Medals can be worn regardless of the country they were earned in. These medals must be worn on the right-hand side.
My grandparents’ medals were lost. Is there another way I can show respect?
Just turning up to an Anzac Day service is an excellent way to show respect and honour their service. Wearing a poppy is another way you can show your support for your own relatives, and all New Zealand’s veterans of military service.
New Zealanders pay their respects at the dawn service at the Pukeahu National War Memorial Park.RNZ / Dom Thomas
Is it ok to take a few Anzac biscuits to eat if I get hungry? Or a coffee?
We get it – it’s early in the morning and we all get a bit snacky. As long as your snack and its packaging do not disrupt those around you, you’re welcome to have a sneaky Anzac biscuit or a coffee with you.
Can I pop over to my local RSA for a drink after the service, or is that for veterans only? And is it true that veterans drink rum and milk on Anzac Day?
RSAs are open to all on Anzac Day – and offer a great opportunity to meet and talk with the veterans in your community.
Rum and milk? Sounds dreadful!
The actual tradition, known as a ‘gunfire breakfast’ is for a tot of rum in a cup of coffee. The exact origins of the tradition are not known but legend has it that during World War One, rum-laced coffee was served alongside breakfast to give the troops liquid courage to face the coming battles for the day.
I can’t make it to the dawn service for a bunch of reasons. Is there another way I can join in and show my respect?
There are many ways to commemorate Anzac Day, if you can’t make a Dawn Service many areas also hold a civic service later in the day. You could also visit a local war memorial or cenotaph and lay a poppy while reflecting on the men and women in your community that have served. If you see someone out on Anzac Day wearing medals on their left-hand side, you could have a conversation with them about their experiences. Even just wearing your poppy shows that you are honouring those New Zealanders who have served.
