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.
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.
Auckland, NZ – Tongan community leader and councillor Lehopoaome Vī Hausia of Labour has thanked the community for its support after being elected Chair of the Ōtara‑Papatoetoe Local Board, marking another milestone following his successful court challenge over the previous local government election results.
Hausia, who took the earlier election outcome to court and won—resulting in his re‑election earlier this month—expressed gratitude to voters after being formally elected to the board’s leadership this term.
“Thank you for your trust in me. It is a privilege to be elected Deputy and Chair, succeeding a strong line of previous chairs,” Hausia said following the board’s swearing‑in ceremony.
All members of the Ōtara‑Papatoetoe Local Board have now been sworn in, with leadership roles shared between two senior members over the course of the term.
Under the agreed leadership arrangement, Apulu Reece Autagavaia will serve as Chair of the Ōtara‑Papatoetoe Local Board for the first half of the term, before taking on the role of Deputy Chair in the second half, while Vi Hausia will act as Deputy Chair for the first half of the term and later assume the position of Chair for the remainder of the term.
Hausia’s return to elected office follows a prolonged legal challenge that attracted public attention after he successfully contested the outcome of the previous election in court.
His case resulted in the election result being overturned in his favour, clearing the way for his reinstatement.
The Ōtara‑Papatoetoe Local Board represents one of Auckland’s most diverse communities, with a significant Pacific population, including a large Tongan community.
Hausia is widely regarded as a strong advocate for Pacific voices in local government.
With the board now fully constituted and leadership roles confirmed, members are expected to begin advancing local priorities for the new term, including community development, infrastructure, and social wellbeing initiatives.
The Ministry of Health has officially declared a Dengue Fever outbreak in Tonga, following a rise in confirmed cases across several island groups.
In a public health update issued today, the ministry confirmed 28 dengue cases nationwide, including four new cases, prompting the formal outbreak declaration.
The cases have been recorded across Tongatapu, Haʻapai, and ʻEua, with four patients currently hospitalised.
Health authorities have reported no deaths associated with the outbreak to date.
According to the Ministry, the most affected age group is adolescents between 11 and 15 years old, raising concerns about the potential spread of the mosquito-borne virus among school-aged children.
Officials say surveillance and response measures have been intensified, including case monitoring, vector control activities, and public health awareness efforts aimed at limiting transmission.
Public Health Response
Dengue Fever is transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes and can spread rapidly in tropical conditions, particularly during periods of increased rainfall.
Health officials are urging members of the public to remain vigilant and take practical steps to reduce the risk of dengue transmission, including eliminating standing water around homes where mosquitoes can breed, using mosquito repellents, installing window screens or sleeping under mosquito nets, and seeking medical attention promptly if symptoms such as fever, headache, joint pain, or rash develop.
The Ministry of Health continues to monitor the situation closely and has indicated that further updates will be issued as more information becomes available.
Community cooperation, health officials note, will play a key role in controlling the spread as Tonga enters the heightened response phase following the official outbreak declaration.
Nukuʻalofa — Tonga’s worsening power crisis has now begun disrupting essential government services, after the Ministry of Justice confirmed that ongoing blackouts have forced a temporary shutdown of its civil registry system, preventing the issuance of birth, death and marriage certificates.
The Ministry’s notice comes amid public anger following repeated power cuts over the past 72 hours, as pressure mounts on the Prime Minister over outages affecting homes, village water supplies and vulnerable residents.
In a public notice released this morning, the Registrar General’s Office said the outages had rendered its system inoperable, apologising to the public for the inconvenience and advising that services would only resume once power stability is restored.
The Ministry said it was working to resolve the issue and would issue an update when operations return to normal.
The announcement adds to mounting public frustration as frequent blackouts continue to affect daily life across Tongatapu, with residents increasingly questioning the country’s power reliability and the wider consequences of prolonged electricity disruptions.
Outages Fuel Public Outrage
Social media has been flooded with complaints, with many users describing damage to household appliances and business equipment caused by sudden outages.
Public criticism has intensified in recent days following further load‑shedding advisories from Tonga Power Limited, which has cited faults in several generators that have reduced generation capacity, making outages unavoidable in parts of Tongatapu.
Some have called for urgent investment in backup power systems for critical government departments, while others have urged authorities to treat the electricity situation as a national emergency rather than a routine technical issue.
Tonga Power has issued repeated apologies for the disruption caused by the power outages.
By Sam Sherwood, National Crime Correspondent, rnz and is repbulished with permission
Two children aged under three years old died alongside a woman at a Hastings house. Photo: RNZ / Anusha Bradley
The family of a woman, baby and toddler killed in Hastings say they are “heartbroken and devastated”.
It comes as a 36-year-old man was charged with murdering them.
A homicide investigation, dubbed Operation Train, was launched after emergency services were called to a property on Avenue Rd East, Hastings about 6am Sunday, after reports of several people being seriously injured.
Three people died – a woman and her two children, a 3-month-old girl and a 17-month-old girl.
Do you know more? Email sam.sherwood@rnz.co.nz
A fourth person, a man, was taken to hospital in a serious condition.
On Wednesday, Detective Inspector Martin James said the man had been charged with murder and was scheduled to have a bedside hearing.
The family said in a statement they were “heartbroken and devastated by the tragic loss of our loved ones”.
“We are struggling to come to terms with the senseless violence that has taken three beautiful lives far too soon.
“They were deeply loved and will be missed beyond words.”
The family asked for privacy “as we grieve together and support one another”.
“We would also like to thank the emergency services, investigators, and the wider community for their care, compassion, and support during this unimaginable time.”
Nukuʻalofa — Public frustration has flared again as ongoing power outages continue to darken homes and interrupt electricity to village water sources, intensifying calls for action.
Speaker Lord Fakafanua. Photo/Fale Alea ‘O Tonga
Residents across affected areas flooded social media with anger and exhaustion, with many now tagging the Prime Minister and senior Cabinet ministers in appeals for compassion and urgent relief.
The reaction reflects years of simmering frustration, as power outages over the past decade have become routine and public complaints are widely seen as falling on deaf ears.
Complaints ranged from the loss of running water and inability to flush toilets to serious concerns for the elderly, young children, and people dependent on electricity-powered medical equipment.
Outages Hit Without Warning
Several complainants also alleged inconsistencies in planned outage notifications, saying announcements were sometimes issued after power had already been cut in affected areas, resulting in substantial damage to electrical equipment.
Tonga Power could not be reached for comment.
Matangiake resident ʻIsileli Fatani directly appealed to Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua on Facebook, describing severe hardship caused by two consecutive nights without power in the last 72 hours.
“I earnestly appeal to the Prime Minister and Cabinet Ministers Hon. Fane Fotu Fituʻafe, Hon. ʻAisake Eke, and Hon. Sevenitini Toumoʻua — for the past two nights we have been suffering a power outage from 8:30pm through to daylight. Please look into our situation,” Fatani wrote, tagging Fituafe, Toumo’ua, Sika and others in his Facebook post.
He said the power cuts had knocked out the village’s main water pump, leaving families without water for basic sanitation.
“Our water pumps have stopped working, leaving us without water in our bathrooms. The darkness has also led to an increase in theft. What is happening?” he asked.
‘Isileli Fatani
“People who work night shifts and early mornings are suffering, with no water available. We plead with the government to show compassion for our struggles.”
Comments on Fatani’s post reflected similar frustration, with many criticising what they described as a lack of action by authorities.
Other posts about the ongoing outage saga seen by Kaniva News showed some commenters resorting to abusive language directed at Tonga Power.
Faults Force Load‑Shedding
The public frustration intensified yesterday after Tonga Power Limited issued another load‑shedding advisory, confirming that faults in several generators had reduced capacity and made power cuts unavoidable in parts of Tongatapu.
The notice was one of several issued this month alone, with Tonga Power saying load shedding is currently affecting communities in Hahake, including Pea, Haʻateiho, Veitongo, Lapaha, Kolonga, Niutoua, Fuaʻamotu, Nakolo, and surrounding villages. The utility warned that additional areas could also be included if required.
“Load shedding is a necessary last‑resort measure used to reduce pressure on the power system and prevent a total blackout across Tongatapu,” the company said, adding that electricity would be temporarily turned off in some areas to maintain supply to the wider network.
Tonga Power apologised for the disruption and said it would provide further updates as information becomes available, urging consumers to contact 944 or 0800 123 for inquiries.
Despite the explanation, many residents say the repeated outages highlight deeper concerns about the resilience of the country’s power infrastructure, particularly as households and businesses continue to struggle with prolonged disruptions.
Tonga’s Anti‑Corruption Commission (ACC) is facing one of its first major tests less than two years after its establishment, following the reported resignation of three investigators amid concerns over leadership and work procedures.
The ACC Commissioner Chris LaHatte
The resignations come amid a broader government effort to bolster the Commission’s capacity by recently recruiting police detectives to assist with the investigation of about 70 complaints lodged ahead of the country’s general election in November.
The complaints reportedly included allegations against the former Hu’akavameiliku government, ranging from misappropriation of public funds to breaches of governance protocols. Hu’akavameiliku denied the allegations at the time.
The Commission was also tasked with investigating former Police Minister Piveni Piukala, who was accused of assisting Mormon leader Pita Foliaki Hopoate to flee Tonga while he was subject to a restraining order. Piukala argued at the time that it was his job to assist Hopoate.
No public updates on the investigations have been released to date.
Professional Principles at Odds
The resigning officers had been recruited from the Tonga Police Force to serve as part of the ACC’s operational staff.
However, their resignations have now seen all three resume duties within the Tonga Police.
According to information broadcast by Letiō ‘a e Kakai FM 88.1, the resignations were linked to alleged dissatisfaction with the Commission’s working policies and the way it is managed by its leadership.
The officers reportedly believed that the Commission’s approach to investigations conflicted with their professional values and with established policing principles.
They are understood to have raised concerns about investigative processes, including procedures for receiving and handling complaints, the methods used to investigate those complaints, and the reporting of investigation outcomes, according to the radio.
It said that the officers felt these professional standards were not sufficiently aligned with the Commission’s operational approach, prompting their decision to resign.
When contacted by the radio for comment, the ACC Commissioner Chris LaHatte allegedly declined to comment on the matter.
He reportedly explained that the Commission’s operational rules prohibit officials from speaking to the media or publicly discussing internal work‑related issues.
As previously reported by Kaniva News, Mr LaHatte expressed confidence during the launch of the Commission’s first Strategic Plan (2024–2029) that collaboration with the community would lead to “significant strides in eliminating corruption and upholding the law.”
