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Slavery victims tell of their years-long ordeal

By
Kaniva Staff
-

By Gill Bonnett of RNZ and is republished with permission

This story discusses details of slavery and sexual abuse.

Two young people have told how they were held in slavery by an Auckland man for several years.

Moeaia Tuai was sentenced to jail for more than 16 years on Thursday. Photo: RNZ / Marika Khabazi

Former prison officer Moeaia Tuai, who is 63, was found guilty by a jury last year of two charges of slavery, two counts of rape and a string of other sexual assaults. He was on Thursday jailed for more than 16 years.

In a victim statement, one of the complainants said he took her youthful happiness, her voice and virginity, and she sometimes felt like her soul had left her body. “A lot of the time, I wish I wasn’t here,” she said, adding she wished she was living a normal girl’s dreams and living her life.

“But sadly, instead, I am one of those girls fighting demons and emotions I don’t deserve, every day,” she said.

“I find it very hard to communicate with others because I was always stopped from speaking with anyone and everyone… I often have flashbacks that just hold me back and I’d rather be home alone.

“To hear my mother’s heartbreak after 10 plus years of being kept apart – my mother’s first time in New Zealand was for a court case.”

She described Tuai and his relatives as a “narcissistic and hypocritical family”.

Suppression orders prevent any information likely to identify the victims from being published.

The second victim, a young man, spoke through tears about the good Samaritans who helped him when he ran away, frightened and not able to sleep at night.

The High Court in Auckland was packed with family and friends of Tuai and his victims, with several crying while the details of the offending were read out.

‘False testimony’

“My parents are now trying to rebuild the good life that was broken because of these people… A glass that has been shattered into tiny pieces cannot be put back together again.”

He spoke through an interpreter to the defendant and his relatives – some of whom gave evidence to the jury, but also faced allegations during the trial that they too were involved in the offending.

“To anyone who has given false testimony here, I pray that you feel repentance in your heart. A glass that has been shattered into tiny pieces cannot be put back together again.”

Only Tuai has been charged in connection to the offending, which occurred from 2016 to 2024.

The court heard he might face poor treatment, and need to be segregated if prisoners found out he was a Corrections officer.

Justice Michele Wilkinson-Smith was asked to consider whether Tuai could have a shorter sentence because of that, and also due to the effect his sentence would have on his sick wife. She granted a small reduction to the jail term – and noted his wife had also benefited from the offending.

Funding Tuai’s lifestyle

Sentencing Tuai, Wilkinson-Smith said the older complainant had been assured before arriving in New Zealand that he could finish his secondary school education, but he was immediately put to work at a boarding lodge that his wife’s sister owned.

After moving to Australia, Tuai took control of the male complainant’s internet banking, his bank card and passport, allowing him only $100 of his weekly pay for full-time work.

“He was funding your lifestyle,” she told Tuai, saying that only ended when the man ran away and managed to get a new passport to return to New Zealand.

Tuai, his wife and the second victim also returned to New Zealand, where she was told she could not go to school – and instead must supplement his state benefits by working cash in hand jobs.

“At one point, the female victim worked 57 consecutive days without a single day off, including weekends,” Wilkinson-Smith said.

“The evidence for that came from your own diary which recorded her working hours…You were using her as a source of labour and income, as you had previously used the male complainant. She had no autonomy and no access to the money she was earning.”

When she had a formal job, her estimated (lost) wages were $80,000.

Saddled with debts

She was ‘treated as property in every way’ by Tuai, who made her work for free, have sex with him, controlled her movements and restricted her ability to get help or report him.

Before he raped her, he bought alcohol to ply her with, using money from her own bank account.

“It is clear that as far as you were concerned, she was in New Zealand only for your benefit,” Wilkinson-Smith added.

He felt entitled to the money the two earned, ‘drained their bank accounts’ and threatened them with deportation, she said, leaving them saddled with debts through loans they were forced to take out.

Both young people suffered threatened and actual violence, and were told they would lose the right to stay in New Zealand if they did not “obey his orders” or alerted authorities.

The judge said slavery was not a “cultural misunderstanding” and she was worried about how widespread it might be.

“I hope that this case highlights for others that this is slavery. It is not legal. You cannot bring people to New Zealand to exploit them for their labour and income.”

Where to get help:

  • Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason
  • Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
  • Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO. This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends
  • Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 or text 4202
  • Samaritans: 0800 726 666
  • Youthline: 0800 376 633 or text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz
  • What’s Up: 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787. This is free counselling for 5 to 19-year-olds
  • Asian Family Services: 0800 862 342 or text 832. Languages spoken: Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, Hindi, and English.
  • Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
  • Healthline: 0800 611 116
  • Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
  • OUTLine: 0800 688 5463
  • Aoake te Rā bereaved by suicide service: or call 0800 000 053

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.

Sexual Violence

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Air NZ cancels Auckland–Tonga flight as cabin crew strike disrupts schedule

By
Kaniva Staff
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Air New Zealand’s flight NZ0974 / SQ4286 from Auckland to Nuku‘alofa, scheduled to arrive at 5.25pm today, Thursday 12 February, has been cancelled.

The airline’s website provides no explanation for the cancellation, but it comes as Air New Zealand faces major disruption from a cabin crew strike affecting long‑haul services

The strike action, led by the Flight Attendants’ Association of New Zealand (FAANZ), has already caused widespread disruption.

Reports say the airline has so far cancelled 44 flights and adjusted schedules as it prepares for industrial action planned for Thursday and Friday. Up to 16,000 passengers are expected to be impacted across the network.

The strike involves crew from Air New Zealand’s wide‑body aircraft fleet, affecting most long‑haul routes to North America and Asia.

Negotiations between the airline and unions E tū and FAANZ have been ongoing for weeks, centred on pay and working conditions, but no agreement has been reached.

Air New Zealand’s chief customer and digital officer, Jeremy O’Brien, told Newstalk ZB that the airline considers the disruption “controllable” and has taken steps to limit its impact.

He said the airline is trying to protect services to the Pacific by using its narrow‑body jets on some Tasman and Island routes to keep those flights operating where possible.

International long‑haul flights, however, are bearing the brunt of the cancellations.

Passengers affected by the strike are being contacted directly by the airline with rebooking options, accommodation support where needed, or the option of a refund or travel credit.

No further details were available this afternoon regarding the specific cancellation of flight NZ0974 to Tonga.

Taumoepenu sentenced to 18 months for housebreaking and indecent assault

By
Kaniva Staff
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Editor’s note: This story has been updated to remove identifying information prohibited under a court order. Kaniva News apologises unreservedly for the inadvertent breach of the publication restriction. We take the Court’s directive seriously and have corrected the article to ensure full compliance with section 119 of the Criminal Offences Act. We are reviewing our editorial processes to prevent any recurrence.

Viliami Taumoepenu has been sentenced to 18 months in prison after admitting to breaking into a woman’s home and indecently assaulting her.

An illustration of a prisoner being escorted into Hu‘atolitoli Prison. This image is an AI‑generated graphic created for news purposes.

The offending occurred on July 19, 2025, when Taumoepenu entered the complainant’s home as a trespasser.

He also indecently assaulted her by touching her without consent.

The court described the conduct as a serious violation of the victim’s safety in her own home and noted that she had previously regarded the defendant as a brother.

Taumoepenu pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity and cooperated with police, which resulted in a reduction of the overall sentence.

Lord Chief Justice Bishop KC considered his personal background and acknowledged that he had faced difficulties, including leaving school early and being influenced by his peers.

However, the judge also noted that he had prior convictions, including offences of a similar nature, and had breached previous community-based sentences.

For serious housebreaking, the court imposed a sentence of two and a half years, reduced by six months for his early guilty plea. For serious indecent assault, the court imposed 18 months, to run concurrently with the first count.

This left a final custodial sentence of 18 months, followed by a suspended period of 12 months to run over two years under strict conditions set by the court.

The sentence was backdated to account for time already served in custody.

The court also issued a publication restriction under section 119 of the Criminal Offences Act, prohibiting the release of any information that could identify the complainant.

Havili to make Moana Pasifika history as he reaches 50‑game milestone in Fiji

By
Kaniva Staff
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Moana Pasifika playmaker William Havili is set to etch his name into the club’s history books this weekend, becoming the first player to reach 50 matches when the team meets the Fijian Drua in Lautoka on Saturday. For a young franchise still shaping its identity, Havili’s achievement is a landmark moment — a blend of loyalty, endurance, and Pacific pride.

William Havili

One of only four players who have been with Moana Pasifika since its inaugural 2022 season, Havili says the milestone feels bigger than just a personal accolade.

“It’s an honour and a privilege to not only play one game but 50 games for Moana,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to it and hoping we can put a good performance out there for our fans and get the win.”

A Special Pacific Clash to Open the Season

Head coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga says Havili’s milestone could not come at a better time — in a Pacific‑to‑Pacific showdown that sets the tone for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.

“Anytime we play against the Fijian Drua, it’s special,” Umaga said. “What an awesome opportunity it is to celebrate the start of the competition with two teams representing the Pacific Islands and playing in the Islands.”

Umaga described the Drua as “a dangerous team” known for thriving off their vocal and passionate home crowd in Lautoka.

“For us, it’s about focusing on our strengths and what we can control. We want to bring the energy from the start and make it a great occasion for our fans — and for Willi, who we’re excited to see achieve his 50th match milestone.”

Havili Ready for the Challenge

Havili says the team expects a physical, high‑tempo encounter.
“It’s awesome playing against our Pacific brothers. They’re an expansive team and they like to throw the ball around. It will be a good match‑up, and especially over there in Fiji — it’ll be hot, but the boys are ready for it.”

He added that Moana Pasifika’s pre‑season preparation has built confidence within the squad.
“We’ve been building through preseason and had a hit‑out against the Highlanders. There’s lots of work‑ons, but a lot of positives as well. Hopefully we can put it all together on Saturday.”

Born and raised in Motueka, Havili was a standout at Nelson College, where he captained the First XV to a Moascar Cup victory. Since debuting for Moana Pasifika in 2022 against the Crusaders, he has steadily evolved as both a playmaker and a leader. Now 27, he has become one of the club’s most reliable performers, guiding a pathway for the next generation of Moana backs.

New Captain and Returning Power

Saturday’s match will also see Miracle Faiilagi captain Moana Pasifika for the first time, supported by dominant loose forwards Semisi Paea and Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa.

Fans will get their first glimpse of powerhouse midfielder Ngani Laumape in Moana colours, pairing with Lalomilo Lalomilo in what promises to be one of the most imposing midfields of the round.

Wellington loose forward Dominic Ropeti is set to make his debut from the bench, alongside utility back Glen Vaihu, who has impressed coaches throughout preseason. Rising winger Denzel Samoa, who earned his place through a three‑week trial camp in December, also joins the matchday 23.

Unavailable Through Injury

  • Augustine Pulu (calf)
  • Jimmy Tupou (elbow)
  • Niko Jones (foot)
  • Ola Tauelangi (back)
  • Tupou Afungia (neck)
  • Paula Latu (knee)
  • Tevita Latu (knee)

Man sentenced to seven years for violent machete attack on partner and her daughter

By
Kalino Latu
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Nuku’alofa — The Supreme Court of Tonga has sentenced Samisoni Toliseli to seven years’ imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to two counts of causing grievous bodily harm in a machete attack on his partner and her daughter.

An illustration depicting a courtroom scene related to the sentencing. This image is an AI‑generated graphic created for news purposes.

The sentence was delivered by Lord Chief Justice Bishop KC, who described the offending as extremely serious and emphasised that violence against women, particularly in domestic settings, “will not be tolerated and strong punishment must follow.”

According to the court, the incident occurred after a night of heavy drinking between Toliseli and the first victim, a 51‑year‑old woman with whom he was in a relationship.

An argument broke out, during which Toliseli attempted to strangle her and threw her to the ground. Her daughter, aged 21, rushed to help after hearing her mother’s cries.

Toliseli then armed himself with a machete. He first struck the daughter, who raised her arm to protect herself, causing a serious fracture of her right ulnar bone.

He then turned on the mother, repeatedly striking her with the machete and causing life‑threatening injuries, including an open skull fracture, deep lacerations, and multiple broken bones. Both victims required urgent medical attention.

Long‑Term Impact on Victims

The mother underwent surgery and has lost the ability to continue her weaving work, her main source of income. The daughter, who was in her final year of nursing studies, has had to suspend her training and continues to experience pain, reduced arm movement, and emotional trauma.

She told the court she fears the offender’s return and hopes the sentence reflects the severity of the lasting harm.

Toliseli changed his plea to guilty on 26 November 2025. The court acknowledged his apology to the first victim and his expressed intention to offer compensation, which contributed to certain sentence reductions.

However, Justice Bishop noted Toliseli’s history of violent offending and previous assault convictions, stating that such behaviour required firm judicial response.

The court applied separate sentences for each count:

  • Count 1 (mother): 4 years’ imprisonment
  • Count 2 (daughter): 5 years’ imprisonment

Of the second sentence, 3 years will be served consecutively, and 2 years concurrently, resulting in a total of 7 years’ imprisonment. The final 2 years are suspended for 3 years on strict conditions, including probation supervision, participation in alcohol and drug programs, and compliance with all laws.

In delivering the sentence, Justice Bishop reiterated the court’s firm stance: domestic violence — especially involving weapons like machetes — will attract significant prison terms.

Toliseli must report to the Probation Office within 24 hours of release and comply with all conditions or risk serving the balance of his sentence.

Asian food stall in Nuku’alofa closed after alleged food poisoning incident

By
Kalino Latu
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An Asian outdoor food vendor operating in front of the Tonga Post Office in central Nuku’alofa has been ordered to close following allegations of food poisoning.

A tent‑based food stall outside the Tonga Post Office displaying a “Closed by Health Authorities” notice following an alleged food poisoning complaint. This image is an AI‑generated illustration created for reporting purposes.

It has been reported that children suffered food poisoning after eating food from the vendor, and this was not the first time alleged poisoning incidents had been linked to the same establishment.

Local reporter Mele Manu Fiu reported the incident.

She publicly thanked the Ministry of Health, particularly staff from the Emergency Department and Public Health Division, for their swift response after she lodged a complaint.

She claimed her children became ill after eating food purchased from the stall.

In a post shared on social media, Fiu confirmed the tent‑based food stall’s closure, saying:

“It has been confirmed that this food tent has been closed after some of the ingredients used were found to be expired. Work is continuing regarding this restaurant.”

According to Fiu, a total of seven patients — including her four children — were admitted to hospital with symptoms consistent with food‑related illness, including food poisoning.

She said the cases were reported directly by Emergency Department staff to the Ministry of Health’s Public Health outreach unit, prompting immediate action.

Fiu urged members of the public to be vigilant and report any suspected food‑related illnesses.

“If you eat food and experience vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and weakness, it is important to speak up and report it. Some people recognise the signs of food poisoning, while others do not,” she said.

She noted that, with the current hot and humid weather, many families rely on ready-made meals, making proper food handling and hygiene more important than ever.

Food safety experts warn that food preparation carries significant responsibility, especially in commercial kitchens.

Fiu echoed this sentiment, saying food handlers and businesses must take greater care to ensure hygiene standards are followed to protect the health of the public.

The Ministry of Health is expected to continue its investigation into the restaurant to determine whether further action is required.

Authorities could not be reached for comment.

‘It’s time to mentor’: First Tongan-Australian woman rises to Navy captain in historic promotion

By
Kaniva Staff
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Commander Rose Apikotoa has made history as the first Australian of Tongan heritage to be promoted to the rank of captain in the Royal Australian Navy, in a ceremony in Canberra that blended military tradition with the prayers, blessings and dances of her ancestral homeland.

Captain Rose Apikotoa receives her rank slide from Deputy Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley at a historic promotion ceremony in Canberra, becoming the first Australian of Tongan heritage to achieve the rank of captain in the Royal Australian Navy. Photo: Royal Australian Navy

Having served most recently as the Commanding Officer of HMAS Moreton, she will soon start a new role in Canberra as Chief of Staff to the Head of Military Personnel in Defence People Group.

Deputy Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley presented Captain Apikotoa with her new rank slide, recounting her distinguished career and leadership roles.

“Rose is not only one of our great leaders, she is one of our great female leaders and undoubtedly one of the real leaders for quite a significant number of people in our Navy from all parts of the Pacific family,” Rear Admiral Buckley said.

“Her professional and personal contributions, both in and outside of Navy, support and vindicate Rose’s remarkable career success.”

The promotion ceremony, attended by her family, colleagues and Tonga’s Acting High Commissioner to Australia, Curtis Tu’ihalangingie, was a proud moment for her and her community.

“I am humbled by the support being provided to my promotion by the presence of the Acting High Commissioner of Tonga. Whilst I was born and bred in Australia, my ancestral home of Tonga will always have a special place in my heart,” Captain Apikotoa said.

‘It’s time to mentor ADF members of Pacific Islander heritage.’

Captain Apikotoa’s career has included maritime warfare experience on HMA Ships Yarra, Gascoyne, Sydney, Newcastle and Parramatta. Her shore roles have included Deputy Fleet Operations officer, aide-de-camp to the Chief of Defence Force, Deputy Director Navy Intelligence Capability, and Commanding Officer of HMAS Moreton.

The occasion featured prayers and blessings from Tongan-born Navy Chaplain Simote Finau and traditional dances from a local Tongan performance group.

The daughter of Tongan migrants, Captain Apikotoa gave special thanks to her family in her speech to those in attendance.

“Growing up in a Tongan household gave me the morals and collective culture that have contributed to my own leadership style and the values that I live by,” she said.

“My parents worked hard and made great sacrifices for myself and my siblings.”

For her part, Captain Apikotoa has been active in supporting others. She mentors ADF women’s rugby union players both on and off the field. The Royal Australian Navy Rugby Union women’s most valuable player trophy is named in her honour. 

Outside Navy, Captain Apikotoa contributes to Pacific Islander youth development through initiatives hosted by Western Sydney University and Griffith University. She is frequently invited to speak to high schoolers to promote Defence as an employment option.

“It’s time to mentor ADF members of Pacific Islander heritage,” she said.

“Their connections in the Pacific will be important as we are called on to do more in the region, with the ever-present threat of natural disasters and growing geostrategic uncertainty.”

Police arrest Ellerslie woman over alleged 18‑year romance scam costing victim over $500,000

By
Kaniva Staff
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Dunedin / Auckland – Police have arrested a 44‑year‑old Ellerslie woman in connection with an alleged romance scam that reportedly ran for nearly two decades and cost a Dunedin man more than half a million dollars.

The arrest follows a coordinated operation involving both Dunedin Police and the Auckland City Financial Crime Unit, who executed a search warrant at an Auckland property today.

According to Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Ali Ramsay, from the Auckland City Financial Crime Unit, police will allege in court that the elaborate scam began online in 2006 and continued for 18 years.

“The offender in this case has allegedly obtained $525,537 through this elaborate scam,” she said.

The woman has been charged with obtains by deception and is expected to appear in the Auckland District Court on 17 February 2026.

Detective Senior Sergeant Ramsay said the arrest represents a significant breakthrough in what has been an extensive and challenging investigation.

“Our colleagues in Dunedin have been investigating this case, and we’re glad to have assisted in this result,” she said.

“Romance scams are usually perpetrated by offshore offenders, making prosecutions difficult for law enforcement. At the very heart of this are victims whose good nature is taken advantage of, causing emotional and financial stress.”

Police say they cannot comment further as the matter is now before the court.

Meanwhile, authorities are urging the public to remain cautious when forming new connections online or through dating applications, especially when money or personal details are involved.

81-year-old Lapaha man caught attempting to smuggle 5,297 rounds of ammunition into Tonga

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Nuku’alofa, Tonga – Customs officials have intercepted a major haul of undeclared and prohibited items entering the country.

The seized goods included 5,297 rounds of ammunition allegedly imported by an 81‑year‑old man from Lapaha, according to a media release issued by the Ministry of Revenue and Customs.

The discovery was made during heightened inspections carried out between December 2025 and January 2026, where consignments arriving from several countries—including New Zealand and the United States—were subjected to x‑ray scanning and physical examination.

The elderly Lapaha resident was identified as the consignee of one of the most significant seizures during the inspection period.

Customs authorities say the ammunition has since been handed over to the Tonga Police, who are continuing investigations with support from Customs. Legal action is expected to follow.

In addition to the ammunition connected to the 81‑year‑old, multiple other consignments were intercepted for containing firearms, additional rounds of ammunition, fireworks, alcohol, and cigarettes in excess of allowable limits.

Among the seized items were:

  • 1 air rifle and 91 fireworks from a male consignee in Kolofo’ou
  • 200 rounds of ammunition from a female consignee in Houma
  • 200 rounds of ammunition from a 54‑year‑old male in Kolovai
  • Alcohol consignments addressed to recipients in Lapaha, Eua, and Sopu
  • Fireworks and cigarette consignments originating from China

The Ministry emphasised that these interceptions reflect the effectiveness of their enhanced inspection processes and ongoing efforts to protect communities from illicit goods.

“The Ministry of Revenue and Customs’ enhanced inspections process is part of efforts to intercept illicit goods to protect our communities,” the media release stated.

All seized weapons remain in police custody pending further investigation, while alcohol, cigarettes, and fireworks will remain under Customs control for disposal.

Visa denial for critically ill Tongan toddler over ‘costs’ to NZ taxpayers despite parents’ legal status

By
Kalino Latu
-

A Tongan family in Auckland says they have been left devastated after Immigration New Zealand declined a visa for their critically ill toddler — the only family member who would be left without legal status because of his illness — despite both parents and the other children holding valid work visas and his specialist care being funded as an ACC treatment injury.

Parents, Kalolaine and Viliami Ta’eiloa with their twins, Jonathan and William. Photo/Supplied

Two‑year‑old Jonathan Ta’e’iloa was born healthy in September 2023, but became critically unwell around his first birthday.

His condition is unpredictable and complex, involving frequent vomiting, developmental delays, muscle stiffness, and delayed speech. He now depends on constant specialist care to survive.

His parents say one of them has had to give up work entirely to care for Jonathan, leaving the family reliant on a single income while juggling hospital visits, therapies, and daily medical needs.

“It has been overwhelming for our family,” Jonathan’s mother, Kalolaine told PMN News.

“We are doing everything we can to keep him alive, but now we are fighting immigration just so he can continue receiving the care he needs.”

Visa refusal deepens medical crisis

The family says the most painful blow came when Immigration New Zealand (INZ) declined Jonathan’s visa — despite ACC confirming it is covering his medical care as a treatment injury and a Te Whatu Ora clinician supporting the visa application due to the need for New Zealand-based specialist treatment.

Jonathan suffered complications following an initial health event, leading to over a year in hospital, multiple brain surgeries, and the insertion of a feeding tube. His multidisciplinary care plan is ongoing and essential.

But INZ’s decision means Jonathan must leave the country when his current visa expires on Saturday.

“We are shocked and frustrated,” Kalolaine said.

“We have given every medical record from Tonga’s Ministry of Health and Te Whatu Ora, and we have spent more than $5000 on legal fees. We don’t know what else to do.”

A family divided by paperwork

The family’s three other children — Samson, 6, JJ, 3, and William, 2 — all hold valid visas, and both parents have work visas valid until 2028. Jonathan is the only one without legal status.

“It’s heartbreaking,” Kalolaine said. “All our children can stay, but Jonathan — the one who needs the most help — is the one being asked to leave.”

She said officials told the family Jonathan’s care would “cost a lot for New Zealand taxpayers,” even though ACC is already funding his treatment.

INZ says decision based on health criteria

Dominic Forde, Operations Director at Immigration New Zealand, confirmed that INZ received a Dependent Child Visitor Visa application for Jonathan on 7 July 2025, which was declined on 22 January 2026, according to PMN News.

“Jonathan’s application was declined as he has significant health conditions and is likely to impose significant costs or demands on New Zealand’s health services,” Forde said.

Forde said they recognised it was a difficult outcome for the family and would continue to engage with them to manage the process compassionately.

The family says this explanation contradicts ACC’s confirmation that Jonathan’s care qualifies as a treatment injury and is already funded — and that removing him from New Zealand would put his life at risk.

Fundraising for immigration fees

The family’s only remaining option is to lodge a Section 61 request, which, if granted, would temporarily restore Jonathan’s lawful status while a new visa application is reconsidered.

The family says they have not yet submitted the request. Jonathan’s visa is due to expire this week, on February 14.

The family has now raised nearly $20,000 through the Givealittle platform to help cover expenses, as they continue supporting Jonathan at home with ongoing therapy, hospital appointments, and daily care.

“These are essential for Jonathan to continue receiving specialist care in New Zealand,” Kalolaine said. “We cannot imagine taking him back to Tonga where no such care exists.”

As Saturday’s deadline approaches, the family says they are still hoping INZ will reconsider — and that no child’s life should depend on whether he has the right visa.

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