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COMMENTARY: Prime Minister Pōhiva warned about use of circulars, said they muzzled Opposition MPs

By
Kalino Latu
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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.

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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.

Tonga moves to cut land allotments from 30 to 15 poles, backing multi-storey buildings

By
Kalino Latu
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Nukuʻalofa — Tonga’s long‑standing land controversies have entered a new phase following an announcement by the Minister for Lands, Taniela Fusimālohi, who has outlined a proposal to reduce the size of town allotments in an effort to make land available to more people.

Dr Taniela Fusimālohi Minister of Lands

The announcement follows long‑standing calls for Tonga to reform its land tenure system.

These include a 2006 appeal by an Australian think tank, which urged the Kingdom to reform land ownership arrangements after identifying noble land ownership and the reliance on short‑term leases as barriers to foreign investment in Tonga’s tourism sector, according to RNZ.

The following year, the Tonga Women’s Action Group for Change called for more equitable access to land, arguing that women must be able to meaningfully participate if they are to contribute to economic growth.

Under Tonga’s current legal framework, women are generally not permitted to own land, except in cases where they are widows.

A Royal Land Commission of Inquiry report submitted to the Parliament in 2012 recommended major reforms to Tonga’s land tenure system. Its proposals included granting women rights to town allotments and strengthening land management practices.

The three‑volume report also emphasised the urgent need to modernise the land registry and clearly define estate boundaries.

In 2023, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Lands told Kaniva News the Ministry was assessing the feasibility of incorporating the report’s recommendations into its core programme.

Proposal to Reduce Allotments

Fusimālohi said last week the key issue under consideration is a plan to introduce new legislation that would reduce town allotments from 30 poles to 15 poles, allowing the limited land available to be redistributed to Tongans who currently do not hold any allotments.

He did not indicate whether the proposed move was part of efforts to incorporate the recommendations of the 2012 Royal Land Commission report.

The Minister acknowledged that land scarcity has become a national concern and said the proposed change could help address the growing number of landless citizens.

“Our land resources are extremely limited, and this proposal is about finding ways to ensure that more people have access to land,” the Minister said in Tongan.

Under existing land law, every Tongan male is legally entitled to receive a 30‑pole town allotment and an eight‑acre tax allotment.

However, in practice, it is unclear when land was last allocated under this arrangement, as suitable land has become increasingly scarce across the kingdom.

The Minister also said the Ministry is encouraging the public to construct multi‑storey buildings in order to maximise space.

Tonga central bank warns public of rise in Romance Scams exploiting vulnerable communities

By
Kalino Latu
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Nuku’alofa – The National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) has issued a nationwide warning following a continued rise in romance scams that are targeting vulnerable members of the community, particularly through social media and online messaging platforms.

In an official public notice released on Thursday, the central bank said scammers are increasingly using false identities to establish emotional connections with victims before manipulating them into sending money or sensitive financial information.

“These scams typically involve individuals who do not genuinely know or have seen the person they are communicating with,” the NRBT said. “The scammers exploit emotions, build fake romantic relationships, and gradually gain trust before financially defrauding their victims.”

The NRBT urged the public to remain vigilant and outlined several warning signs commonly associated with romance scams.

Among the most frequent red flags are scammers expressing strong feelings of love or affection after only a few days of communication, followed shortly by requests for money. These requests are often linked to fabricated emergencies, medical expenses, travel costs to visit the victim, or fees required to release a supposed parcel or gift.

The bank also highlighted that scammers typically avoid face-to-face meetings or video calls, offering repeated excuses such as working overseas, on an oil rig, in the military, or being deployed or travelling. Victims may also notice pressure to move conversations off mainstream platforms like Facebook Messenger to private apps such as WhatsApp, Viber, or other encrypted services.

Another major red flag includes requests for payments through unusual or untraceable methods, including cryptocurrency, gift cards, or international wire transfers. In some cases, scammers may propose business or investment opportunities that promise unusually high or guaranteed returns, or claim that a valuable gift is on its way but requires a “fee” to be paid before delivery.

What Not to Do

The NRBT strongly advised the public never to send money, bank details, or debit and credit card information to anyone they have only met online.

“Do not share personal or financial information, including passwords or banking details,” the bank warned. “Do not believe quick-rich schemes, inheritance claims, or secret investment opportunities, and do not trust caller identification alone, as scammers can spoof local phone numbers.”

Anyone who believes they may have fallen victim to a romance scam is urged to act immediately by contacting their bank to block accounts or cards and prevent further financial loss. Victims are also encouraged to report the incident to the Tonga Police Cybercrime Unit.

The NRBT said public awareness and vigilance remain the strongest defenses against online fraud, particularly as scammers continue to evolve their methods and exploit emotional vulnerabilities.

For further information or advice, the public is encouraged to contact the National Reserve Bank of Tonga on (+676) 24057, email nrbt@reservebank.to, or visit www.reservebank.to

Attorney General appeals for mother after baby placed in court care

By
Kalino Latu
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The Attorney General’s Office has issued a public appeal seeking information on the natural mother of a child referred to as “Baby X,” following a court order placing the infant under guardianship.

In a statement, Acting Solicitor General Rose L. Kautoke said the child’s mother may be fearful or in need of medical or other support.

She emphasised that the Office’s role is to provide assistance while ensuring the best interests and welfare of the child are safeguarded.

However, the statement did not explain how the baby came into the custody of the court.

“We understand that as mother of ‘Baby X’, you may be afraid or may need medical attention,” the statement said.

“Please be assured that it is our role to support you and ensure the best interests of ‘Baby X’ are safeguarded and protected.”

Members of the public who see the message, or who may be aware of the mother’s identity or whereabouts, are urged to contact the Attorney General’s Office immediately.

Kautoke said the appeal is made in her capacity as Guardian Ad Litem for the child.

The call follows an order made on 10 April 2026 by the Lord Chief Justice, Malcolm Bishop KC, under which “Baby X” was placed under the guardianship and wardship of the court.

Under the order, the Solicitor General was appointed Guardian Ad Litem to act in the best interests of the child.

“As directed by the Court, we plead with the natural mother of ‘Baby X’ to please come forward to meet us,” the Acting Solicitor General said.

“It is my desire that we will work closely with you to ensure appropriate arrangements are made for the welfare of ‘Baby X’.”

The Office can be reached by telephone at +7401400, by email at ag@ago.gov.to, or by visiting the Attorney General’s Office on the first floor of the Taumoepeau Building in Nukuʻalofa and requesting to meet a representative.

The Attorney General’s Office emphasised that all efforts are focused on ensuring the safety, welfare, and lawful protection of the child.

Huni outpoints Clarke in tense heavyweight showdown

By
Kaniva Staff
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Australian heavyweight Justis Huni secured a composed and technically assured victory over Britain’s Frazer Clarke, outpointing his rival in a bout that nearly collapsed just hours before the opening bell.

The highly anticipated clash had been thrown into uncertainty at the eleventh hour due to undisclosed logistical complications, raising doubts over whether the fight would proceed. However, both camps reached a late agreement, allowing the contest to go ahead as scheduled.

Once in the ring, Huni demonstrated superior movement, ring IQ, and shot selection across the rounds. The Brisbane-born boxer controlled the tempo early, using his jab effectively to keep Clarke at range while mixing in sharp combinations. Clarke, known for his physicality and durability, pressed forward in patches but struggled to consistently land clean, telling blows.

Judges ultimately awarded Huni a clear points decision, reflecting his dominance in both output and accuracy. The win marks a significant step forward for the rising Australian, reinforcing his credentials as a serious contender in the heavyweight division.

Speaking after the fight, Huni acknowledged the disruption leading into the bout but remained focused on the result.

“It wasn’t ideal preparation with everything that happened, but once we got in there, it was all business,” he said. “Frazer is a tough opponent, but I stuck to the plan.”

For Clarke, the defeat represents a setback but not a derailment. The Olympic bronze medallist showed resilience throughout and is expected to regroup as he continues his professional campaign.

Despite the pre-fight uncertainty, the bout delivered a compelling contest, with Huni’s poise under pressure ultimately proving the difference.

‘Later on is too late’: NEMA warns NZ ahead of Tropical Cyclone Vaianu

By
Kaniva Staff
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By 1news.co.nz and is republished with permission

The National Emergency Management Agency has warned the arrival of Tropical Cyclone Vaianu is “going to be big” – and New Zealanders should be preparing now for its arrival later this week.

Speaking to 1News today, NEMA director of civil defence emergency management John Price said the event is likely to be “extreme and severe”.

Earlier today, MetService said the weather system had winds of 95km/h at its centre, with a track map showing the forecast position of the system as it crosses the country.

Watches are currently in place across the North Island – and forecasters have warned it could potentially have life-threatening impacts when it is forecast to hit the country on late Saturday into early Sunday.

Speaking to 1News today, NEMA director of civil defence emergency management John Price said the event is likely to be “extreme and severe”.

“[It] will remain within the parameters of New Zealand, and mainly the North Island for that period of Sunday. It will be very intense.”

Price said NEMA was primarily concerned about the impacts from strong winds – and the potential for trees to become dislodged, as well as potential landslips.

“Those landslides that we’ve experienced before in severe weather events are almost certain to occur.”

‘Be prepared’

Price said people should stay away from trees, and be aware of already sodden ground which will likely flood.

He said people should also stay away from floodwaters where even a small amount could sweep people and cars away, and the ocean, which is forecast to have large swells.

“The advice from us is very clear, be prepared.

“Be prepared is have a plan. Be prepared is also to have access to your grab bags and other things which will make sure you can keep in communication.

Tropical cyclone cuts a swathe between Fiji and New Zealand 

Vaianu has winds of 95km/h at its centre, with a track map showing the forecast position of the system as it will cross the country. 

Tropical cyclone cuts a swathe between Fiji and New Zealand 1:06

Vaianu has winds of 95km/h at its centre, with a track map showing the forecast position of the system as it will cross the country.  (Source: 1News)

He said ensuring cell phones wee charged – and having a plan with loved ones to avoid hazards were key.

Trampolines, firewood, outdoor furniture and anything else which could be impacted by gale force winds should be secured to avoid them having the potential to “become missiles” he said.

“Declutter or get rid of the clutter out of your gutters. Make sure they’re clean, if the rain comes down we want it to be accessing the system, and getting away from your home.

“Look around, and be prepared for the worst possible case scenario for yourself.”

Price added people who felt at risk should not hesitate to call 111.

“We are all primed… the emergency services, New Zealand Defence Force, the wider sector is all ready, we need New Zealanders to be ready.”

Price also said cash could be withdrawn as a way to still purchase items if power went out, but the main thing was to prepare “now, and not later”.

“Later on is too late.”

Price added people could visit the GetReady website for more advice on preparing for the cyclone’s arrival.

Cyclone Vaianu is expected to move southwards across the North Island on Sunday, 12 April.
Cyclone Vaianu is expected to move southwards across the North Island on Sunday, 12 April. (Source: MetService)

Current watches and warnings

Heavy Rain Watch

Northland – 12 hours from 9pm Saturday to 9am Sunday.

Auckland and Great Barrier Island – 12 hours from 2am to 2pm Sunday.

Coromandel Peninsula, and Bay of Plenty west of Whakatāne including Rotorua – 14 hours from 2am to 4pm Sunday.

Waikato – 15 hours from 3am to 6pm Sunday.

Bay of Plenty about and east of Whakatāne – seven hours from 9am to 4pm Thursday.

Gisborne/Tairāwhiti north of Tolaga Bay – 14 hours from 2am to 4pm Sunday.

Gisborne about and south of Tolaga Bay, Hawke’s Bay ranges, and coastal hills south of Napier – 16 hours from 2am to 6pm Sunday.

Waitomo, Taumarunui, Taupō and Taranaki – 12 hours from 8am to 8pm Sunday.

Strong Wind Watch

Western parts of the North Island, from Coromandel Peninsula to Wellington – 21 hours from 4am Sunday to 1am Monday.

‘Significant and damaging’ Cyclone Vaianu churns toward NZ

Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, Tararua District and Wairarapa – 24 hours from 6am Sunday to 6am Monday.

Northland, Auckland and Great Barrier Island – 21 hours from 9pm Saturday to 6pm Sunday.

Judge calls doctor after questioning Minister’s medical certificate in electoral bribery hearing; Sika testifies from home

By
Kalino Latu
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Nuku‘alofa — A Supreme Court judge sought clarification from a medical doctor after raising concerns about the wording of a medical certificate submitted to excuse the defendant from returning to court to continue cross‑examination following a morning session.

Former MP Pingi Fasi (L) and Minister for Tourism Semisi Sika

The development follows the cross‑examination of Minister of Tourism Sēmisi Sika in court on electoral bribery charges, laid by his political rival, former MP and cabinet minister Pingi Fasi, in relation to last year’s general election.

As recently reported by Tāpinga Lavemaau of FM 88.1 Letiō ‘a e Kakai, Sika requested an adjournment during the morning session, citing fatigue after responding to numerous questions. The judge granted the request.

However, when the court reconvened to continue proceedings, a medical certificate was submitted, stating that Sika had returned home after feeling unwell.

According to Lavemaau, the judge expressed concern about the wording of the medical certificate, noting that Sika’s illness was not specified.

The report said the judge adjourned the session and indicated he would contact the doctor to seek clarification on the medical certificate.

He reportedly attempted to contact the issuing doctor directly but received no response, leaving a message requesting follow-up, according to the radio report.

A staff member for Sika told the court that the minister had recorded high blood pressure, which was cited as the reason he was unable to continue in person, but the judge noted that this information was not stated in the medical certificate.

Despite the judge’s reservations, the court permitted proceedings to continue, allowing Sika to participate remotely via Zoom from his home, according to Lavemaau.

As Kaniva News previously reported, the court hearing follows an investigation by the Electoral Commission into allegations of campaign overspending and concerns over whether all expenses were properly declared, after a formal complaint was lodged against Sika.

The dispute centres, among other matters, on a $10,000 sponsorship for the Suliana Dance Academy, announced during a recital on 8 November 2025, just weeks before the general election.

Sika has previously denied any wrongdoing in comments to Kaniva News.

Tongan candidate who exposed fraud leads preliminary Papatoetoe by-election results

By
Kalino Latu
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A Tongan candidate who previously lost a local board race later marred by fraud allegations has staged a strong comeback, emerging as the leading vote‑getter in the Papatoetoe local board election re-run in Auckland, according to preliminary results.

Papatoetoe local board by-election candidate Vi Hausia, who successfully petitioned the 2025 election result, says the rerun has exposed vulnerabilities in postal voting. Photo/Vi Hausia Otara-Papatoetoe Local Board Member Facebook

Lehopoaome Vi Hausia, a Labour candidate of Tongan descent, secured the highest number of votes in the by-election after successfully petitioning for a judicial inquiry that uncovered irregularities in the previous poll.

His strong showing marks a notable shift from the 2025 election, when the Papatoetoe Ōtara Action Team won all four available seats.

Preliminary results show Hausia topped the vote with 2,788 votes, ahead of Jeet Singh of the Papatoetoe Ōtara Action Team, who received 2,484 votes.

Singh was followed closely by fellow team member Sandeep Saini on 2,479 votes, while Kushma Nair secured the fourth and final seat with 2,383 votes.

Another Papatoetoe Ōtara Action Team candidate, Kunal Bhalla, narrowly missed out after finishing fifth with 2,343 votes.

Although three members of the Action Team have retained seats, Vi Hausia’s first‑place finish breaks the group’s previous clean sweep, reshaping the local board’s makeup and underscoring the political impact of the fraud revelations that led to the election being overturned.

Final results are expected to be confirmed on Friday, after special votes are counted.

Election Voided Over Fraud Findings

The development follows a December court ruling that voided the Papatoetoe local board election after finding the result was likely affected by widespread voter fraud.

The decision came after Hausia petitioned the Manukau District Court to strike out the results of the contest to represent the Papatoetoe subdivision of the Ōtara‑Papatoetoe Local Board, citing alleged irregularities including claims of “nightly vote stealing” in the lead‑up to October’s local body elections.

The petition outlined six grounds for an inquiry, including what the petitioner described as statistical anomalies in turnout, alleged non-delivery or misuse of ballot papers, irregularities involving special and duplicate votes, discrepancies in voter records and alleged unlawful campaign activity.

It also questioned what the petitioner called systemic weaknesses in the postal model.

TPL’s ‘power operating well’ claim draws criticism amid repeated outages

By
Kalino Latu
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Tonga Power Limited’s (TPL) recent assertion that the country’s electricity supply is operating well has drawn criticism, with commentators and consumers describing the statement as contradictory in light of ongoing and repeated power outages across Tongatapu.

The statement was made during a government press conference on April 1, just five days after a major outage on March 25 that again sparked public outrage on Facebook.

“Hangē ko ia na‘e lave ki ai ‘a e Palēmia, ‘oku lele lelei pē ‘a e ‘uhila he taimi ni,” the TPL representative said in Tongan, referring to what Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua had earlier said about the electricity supply being fine.

As Kaniva News reported in the wake of last month’s outage, residents across Nuku‘alofa were left frustrated after another burnt overhead power line caused widespread blackouts — the latest in a series of similar incidents reported in the preceding weeks.

Consumer advocate Tamiano Finau was among those who criticised TPL’s latest downplaying of the outages.

Posting after the press conference, Finau wrote on Facebook that the reassurance did not reflect the lived experiences of electricity consumers, who continue to endure frequent and disruptive blackouts.

In Tongan, he said: “Asi he fkmatala ‘a e tpl he press conference anenai, oku lele lelei pe ma’u’anga ‘uhila, ko e lolotonga ni eni kei fehanuaki pe kakai he mate mo e vaivai ‘a e ‘uhila.”

This can be translated into English as: A statement from Tonga Power Limited (TPL) at a press conference earlier (today) said the electricity supply is operating well, while at the same time, the public is continuing to complain about power outages and the inconsistency of the power supply.

Finau has been an outspoken critic of Tonga Power Limited for some time, particularly following widespread public backlash over the company’s handling of the aftermath of the Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha‘apai eruption, which saw an unusual spike in electricity bills.

The issue later prompted Parliament to establish a select committee investigation in 2023.

Electricity Levels Explained

At the press conference, the TPL representative was questioned by reporters about the overall status of the electricity supply and whether Tonga had sufficient fuel and generation capacity amid global energy uncertainties linked to the Middle East conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

The officer said the electricity system was currently operating at what he described as “Level 1,” which he said was functioning well.

However, he acknowledged that at Levels 2, 3 and 4, the electricity supply dropped by varying percentages.

He explained that the levelling system depends on Tonga’s limited energy sources — fuel, wind and solar power.

He also said TPL uses battery storage systems to store energy generated from renewable sources and reserves them to help maintain supply when generation drops, in an effort to keep electricity flowing during peak demand periods or interruptions.

UB40 tour standout Suliasi Pōle’o reportedly involved in fatal crash in Tonga

By
Kaniva Staff
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Tongan solo singer Suliasi Pōle‘o, who recently drew widespread attention for his performances during UB40’s February tour of Tonga, is reportedly involved in a serious road crash in the kingdom that is said to have claimed the life of the driver of the vehicle.

Details remain limited, but initial reports indicate the incident occurred in Tonga and is now the subject of police inquiries, with authorities yet to release an official statement on the circumstances of the crash or any potential charges.

Reports circulating on social media claim the crash occurred near the Fatai and Matafonua area, with Facebook commenters naming an individual they allege was the deceased.

Kaniva News has chosen not to publish the identity at this stage, pending official confirmation from authorities.

It has also been claimed that Pōle‘o was rushed to hospital following the incident.

Police have yet to issue a formal statement, while members of the public on social media have begun sharing tributes and memories of the alleged deceased, as well as messages of concern for Pōle‘o.

Suliasi Pōle‘o performs alongside his brother Tu‘ipulotu Pōle‘o (DJ Darren) and their sister Lepolo during the opening performance of the UB40 tour in Tonga in February.

Pole‘o has risen rapidly in public profile following his high‑energy appearances alongside UB40, making news of the incident a shock to fans and the wider music community.

During the international show, Pōle‘o performed several of his well‑known songs that resonated strongly with Tongan audiences, including Baby Nofo Mai and Palōmesi. He was joined on stage at various times by his sisters Lepolo and Dianne, as well as his elder brother DJ Darren.

Cyclone Vaianu weakens in Tonga; PM Luxon warns Kiwis to prepare for North Island impact

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Tonga has downgraded Tropical Cyclone Vaianu to Category 2, but authorities are warning that hazardous conditions remain in the kingdom, while New Zealand forecasters caution the weakening system could still deliver heavy rain and damaging winds to parts of the North Island later this week.

In Tropical Cyclone Advisory Number 07, issued at 1am on Thursday, 9 April 2026, the Fua‘amotu Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre confirmed that although Vaianu has weakened, a tropical cyclone warning remains in force for Tongatapu, ‘Eua, Tele‑ki‑Tonga and Tele‑ki‑Tokelau.

The advisory said a heavy rain warning and flash flood advisory remain in place for Ha‘apai, Tongatapu and ‘Eua, with the potential for surface flooding and rapidly rising streams.

A strong wind warning continues for Tongatapu and ‘Eua land areas, while residents are urged to remain vigilant as conditions may still deteriorate, especially during squally weather.

Coastal and marine warnings

Significant threats remain for coastal and marine areas, with authorities maintaining multiple warnings across Tonga’s waters as Tropical Cyclone Vaianu continues to affect sea conditions.

A storm warning remains in force for Tele‑ki‑Tonga and Tele‑ki‑Tokelau coastal waters, while a heavy damaging swell warning applies to Tongatapu, ‘Eua, Tele‑ki‑Tonga and Tele‑ki‑Tokelau.

A gale warning is still in effect for Tongatapu and ‘Eua coastal waters, and a strong wind warning and small craft advisory continues for Ha‘apai coastal waters.

In addition, a small craft advisory remains in force for Tongatapu, ‘Eua, Tele‑ki‑Tonga and Tele‑ki‑Tokelau, with mariners urged to exercise extreme caution and avoid unnecessary travel at sea.

Mariners have been advised not to take unnecessary risks at sea, while coastal communities are urged to watch for large and damaging swells.

Cyclone may impact New Zealand

Meanwhile, New Zealand forecasters say Tropical Cyclone Vaianu could bring heavy rain and damaging gale‑force winds to parts of the North Island later this week.

MetService’s latest severe weather outlook indicates the system is expected to track south to southeast, with high confidence that warning‑level rainfall may impact the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty, northern Gisborne/Tairāwhiti, and the ranges of Hawke’s Bay on Sunday.

New Zealand forecasters warned that the entire North Island is under a strong wind watch from 1am to 11pm on Sunday as Cyclone Vaianu makes its way down from the tropics.

Speaking to the media this afternoon, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon acknowledged the prospect of Cyclone Vaianu hitting the country.

“It’ll likely have a big impact on the North Island, particularly on Sunday.

“We’re encouraging people to stock up, get supplies and tie things down.”

He said emergency agencies are on full notice and are ready for it.

“It’s important we use the time we’ve got to make sure people are prepared at homes and households.”

‘Act now’ – Nema

The National Emergency Management Agency (Nema) is warning Kiwis to “act now” as Tropical Cyclone Vaianu heads for New Zealand, as reported by radio Newstalk ZB.

MetService modelling shows Vaianu bringing heavy rain and extremely strong winds to parts of the country on Friday and Saturday, with red severe weather warnings possible.

Nema director of civil defence emergency management John Price said people should start preparing now before the storm arrives, as “later could be too late”.

“If you can, make sure drains around your property are clear of waste and debris, and bring inside or tie down anything that strong winds could break or pick up,” he said.

“Trust your danger sense and don’t wait for official warnings. Do not enter floodwaters as they are dangerous and can kill you.”

Price said landslides were an “almost certainty” in some areas, with the ground already saturated after recent heavy rain.

“Watch for warning signs like small slips or rockfalls, water flowing out of a slope, trees or fences that start to tilt, or doors and window frames that begin to stick.

“Also take care around trees, which may become unstable and fall.”

He said the storm would be especially tough for communities still recovering from recent severe weather and urged people to support one another and reach out for help if needed.

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