A woman has been sentenced to one year and three months in prison by Tonga’s Supreme Court after pleading guilty to three counts of obtaining money under false pretenses.
Heilala Finau. Photo/Kakalu o Tonga online
Heilala Finau, 23, defrauded three victims of nearly $18,300 by falsely claiming to secure government housing assistance for them.
The jail term resulted from the partial suspension of a total sentence of two years and nine months’ imprisonment.
According to court documents, Finau deceived her victims by falsely claiming she was a clerk for the chief executive officer (CEO) of MEIDECC (Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change, and Communications) and could facilitate housing aid.
In Count One, Finau obtained $12,500 from Malanata Kava i Popua Havea, promising to secure and build a house in Folaha. She fabricated various fees, including $400 for land clearance, $1,600 for construction preparation, and even $500 for a fake trip to New Zealand.
In Count Two, she swindled ‘Elisepa Vaohoi Takitaki out of $3,100, claiming the funds were needed for land subdivision and construction in Lomaiviti. She even convinced Elisepa to pay $200 for a supposed “Valentine’s Day gift” for her CEO.
For Count Three, Finau took $800 from Mafi Taukafa, who was selling goods at Talamahu Market, by pretending to process a housing application. Over several visits, Finau fabricated reasons to request money, including a false $200 “registration fee.”
The Deception Unravels
Mafi and Malanata grew suspicious after Finau’s repeated demands for money. Upon checking with MEIDECC, they discovered no one named “Makitalena Finau” worked there, prompting them to report the scam to police.
Finau was arrested on September 10, 2024, and later pleaded guilty.
In sentencing, Justice Tupou KC said: “The total figure involved is $18,300, evidently, a substantive amount for the complainants earned through selling goods at Talamahu market, committing to a loan and money earned at the cost of leaving a family behind to work abroad.”
The judge handed down a two-year, nine-month prison sentence, with the final 18 months suspended for a period of two years, contingent on strict conditions.
The suspended portion of the sentence was based on a number of criteria, including her early guilty plea and a clean record.
The suspension will only stand if Finau complies with all court-mandated requirements that include not committing any further offences punishable by imprisonment, reporting to the probation office within 48 hours of her release, and completing a life skills course or counselling program as directed by the Salvation Army
Should Finau violate any of these conditions, the suspension may be revoked, requiring her to serve the remaining 18 months in prison. This structured approach aims to ensure both accountability and rehabilitation while protecting the public from further fraudulent schemes.
If Finau violates these terms, she will be required to serve the remaining sentence. With remissions, she is expected to serve 1 year and 3 months in prison.
The Tonga Meteorological Service has issued a Strong Wind Warning for land areas, effective as of 1pm today.
Additionally, a Heavy Rain Warning and Flash Flood Advisory are now in force for Vava’u land areas, while similar warnings remain active for Ha’apai, Tongatapu, and ‘Eua.
Residents in affected regions are urged to take precautions against potential hazards, including strong winds, heavy rainfall, and possible flash flooding.
MetService earlier today stated that a trough is approaching the island group from the southwest this afternoon, bringing associated cloud cover, occasional heavy rain, possible thunderstorms, and gusty winds, which are expected to affect Tongatapu, ‘Eua, Ha‘apai, and Vava‘u later tonight.
These conditions will develop in the afternoon for Tongatapu and ‘Eua, followed by Ha‘apai in the evening and Vava‘u later tonight. Low-lying areas of Ha‘apai, Tongatapu, and ‘Eua may experience flooding.
MetService also issued a forecast for Tonga until midnight tonight, stating that for Niuafo’ou and Niuatoputapu, light to moderate east to northeasterly winds—fresh at times—are expected, gradually decreasing later in the afternoon. Conditions will remain cloudy with occasional showers possible.
For Vava‘u, Ha‘apai, Tongatapu, and ‘Eua, moderate to fresh north to northeasterly winds are expected, becoming strong at times. Skies will be cloudy, turning overcast with occasional rain—heavy at times—and possible thunderstorms.
Authorities advise staying updated with official weather bulletins and following safety guidelines.
Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
The Tongan Catholic community in Auckland is in mourning after a fierce early morning fire tore through St Mary’s Church in Avondale, causing significant damage to the beloved place of worship.
A solemn scene at St Mary’s Church in Avondale, where the fire-ravaged building after this morning’s devastating blaze. The Tongan Catholic community is left heartbroken as they mourn the loss of their cherished spiritual home. Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing. Photo/Supplied
Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) responded to the blaze around 4:15 am after reports of flames engulfing the church building at St Mary’s Catholic School on Great North Road.
Seven fire crews battled the flames, successfully extinguishing the fire, but not before the structure suffered extensive damage.
Members of the Tongan Catholic congregation have shared emotional messages and images of the destroyed church, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of a spiritual home that held decades of memories, prayers, and community gatherings.
“We are deeply saddened to wake up to this tragic news,” said a spokesperson for the parish.
“Our priority is the safety of our community. St Mary’s Primary School is closed for the day and we will keep the community updated.”
The church serves a large Tongan congregation in the area, and its hall has also been a gathering place for members of other Tongan denominations for events and functions.
Kaniva News came across pictures and posts about the incident on Facebook, shared by Tongans in Auckland.
School Closed, Investigation Underway
As a precaution, St Mary’s Primary School has been closed for the day while authorities assess the damage.
FENZ is investigating the cause of the fire, with no further details released at this stage.
The Tongan Catholic community is calling for prayers and unity during this difficult time. Local parish leaders have assured worshippers that updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
“We are grateful to emergency services for their efforts and are working with the authorities to manage the situation safely,” the parish statement continued.
“Fire and Emergency New Zealand is assessing the extent of the damage and investigating the cause. We thank the community for their support and ask for patience and understanding during this time.”
The Vehikite family has launched a social media campaign urging the New Zealand government to reverse the deportation of Paea Vehikite, who was sent back to Tonga on Friday after overstaying his visa.
Paea Vehikite (center) arrives at Fuaʻamotu International Airport with family members after his deportation from New Zealand. His wife, Kilisitina, followed shortly after—now the couple fights to reunite in Rotorua. photo/Supplied
As reported by Kaniva News, Paea arrived in New Zealand in May 2009 but was unable to secure a valid visa, allegedly falling victim to an immigration scam.
Last month, the Rotorua District Court granted Immigration New Zealand (INZ) a warrant of commitment, leading to his detention and subsequent deportation.
During the court hearing, Paea’s wife, Kilisitina, broke down in tears, pleading with Judge John Bergseng to show mercy and allow her husband to stay. She also pleaded with the judge, saying she was in poor health and her life depended on her husband, Paea.
However, Judge Bergseng stated he had no jurisdiction to intervene, explaining that only the Minister of Immigration holds the power to grant such exceptions under the law.
Paea arrived in Tonga on Friday, where he was met by emotional family members at Fua’amotu International Airport. Kilisitina, a New Zealand resident, reportedly flew to Tonga yesterday to reunite with him.
Family Fights for Reunion
Now, the Vehikite family has taken their fight online, calling on Tongans and supporters worldwide to rally behind their cause.
A Facebook post by user Paea Napa’a, written in Tongan, detailed the campaign. The following is a translation of his post by Kaniva News.
He was encouraging people to share banners and messages on social media with the hashtag #BringPaeaBack, demanding that New Zealand authorities allow him to return and reunite with his wife.
Congratulations to family, friends, acquaintances, and all Tongans who feel love for Paea Vehikite.
Paea Vehikite arrived in Tonga on Friday morning. His wife, Kilisitina (Christina) Latu Vehikite, arrived on Saturday evening at 9:35 PM (Sat, 13 July 2024) on Air New Zealand flight NZ976, which departed Auckland at 5:40 PM and arrived in Tonga at 9:35 PM.
We ask for your support. If you have the opportunity, please come to Fua’amotu International Airport tonight to join Paea in welcoming his beloved wife, Kilisitina.
Take photos and videos with them—capture every moment.
If possible, bring signs or banners expressing your support and dissatisfaction with Paea’s deportation. Paea had already settled in New Zealand, and his wife remains there. Additionally, his wife is dealing with health issues, and we believe your support will help in the fight to bring him back home to Rotorua, New Zealand.
If anyone can contact journalists, that would be greatly appreciated.
We trust that you are aware of the legal proceedings against Paea and the circumstances of his deportation.
Your support will make a huge difference—not only for Paea and Kilisitina but also for other Tongans in New Zealand who face similar struggles.
Please share this message widely within our Tongan community.
The community is mourning the loss of Mele Jr Lynch Taumalolo, a beloved high school teacher described as a “fun-loving” and vibrant person, after she died following an incident at Ha’ateiho beach on Saturday.
Mele Jy Lynch Taumalolo
Police have yet to release details about the incident, but tributes have flooded social media, with friends and locals expressing shock and grief over the tragedy.
It is understood that the deceased was a teacher at Tonga College.
“The family are obviously devastated,” one commentator wrote. “It’s just tragic, absolutely tragic.
It shouldn’t have happened… she had her whole life to live. It’s sad.”
One of the written tributes, which appeared to have come from the deceased’s parent, said in Tongan: “My beautiful daughter, I can’t stand this. You are going to be missed.”
Meanwhile, another from a relative said she burst into tears upon hearing the news, adding, “You really were my best sister.”
Many remembered Mele as a devoted and joyful presence in the lives of those who knew her.
As investigations continue, loved ones are left grappling with the sudden loss of a woman who brought light to those around her.
Authorities have not confirmed further details, but the community has rallied in support of her family during this difficult time.
A handwritten message in Tongan read: “There are no words to express how much we will miss you. The world is so cruel.
Manase Kaho ‘I Vailahi Funaki has been sentenced to five years in prison, with the final two years suspended, after pleading guilty to reckless driving causing the deaths of his two children in a tragic crash earlier this year.
The mangled wreckage of the Funaki family vehicle sits near Hofoa village where it rolled and struck a fence. The accident claimed the lives of two children
The 37-year-old father admitted to driving at excessive speeds with defective tires, which led to the fatal accident on Hihifo Road on January 22, 2025.
The court heard that Funaki was travelling with his wife and their two children – 12-year-old Salesi and 9-year-old Dorothy – when the crash occurred.
Despite his wife’s repeated warnings to slow down, Funaki continued attempting to overtake multiple vehicles at high speed. Near the village of Hofoa, he lost control of the vehicle due to a faulty tire, causing the car to veer off the road, roll over, and crash into a fence.
Both children were pronounced dead upon arrival at Vaiola Hospital.
During police questioning five days after the crash, Funaki admitted he had been driving approximately 80 km/h and was aware of the vehicle’s defective tires prior to the accident.
In sentencing, Justice Tupou KC said Funaki has a clean record, cooperated with the police, has demonstrated genuine remorse and has received his wife’s forgiveness, factors that demonstrate that some suspension in his sentence will likely be used positively for his rehabilitation.
Under the terms of the sentence, Funaki will serve three years in prison, with the final two years suspended for two years on strict conditions.
These include mandatory counselling, probation supervision upon release, and a two-year driver’s license ban.
Justice Tupou warned that any violation of these conditions would result in Funaki serving the remainder of his full sentence.
Tonga’s Deputy Prime Minister, Taniela Fusimālohi, confirmed on Friday that 23 reports of alleged fraud and corruption have been lodged with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) against a former government minister.
Deputy Prime Minister Taniela Fusimālohi
The revelation came during a press conference when Fusimālohi was pressed for details on ongoing investigations.
Speaking in Tongan, he stated:
“Ko e fika ko ee ‘oku ke ‘omai ‘oku ‘osi ‘i ai e ngaahi fika ko ia osi ‘ave ia ki ai. Taha e potungaue ‘osi ‘ave enau keisi ‘anautolu mahalo ‘osi a’u ia ki he fika ko ia ko e 23.” This translates into English as: “The number you are mentioning, there are already such cases submitted (to the commission). One of the ministries has also submitted their own cases, and it may have reached that number, 23.”
Fusimālohi did not disclose the identity of the former minister or the specific allegations but noted that the number of reports received by the Anti-Corruption Commissioner is increasing.
The ACC could not be reached for comment.
This development comes after Prime Minister ‘Aisake Eke’s government pledged to review all ministries and government entities as part of a broader anti-corruption initiative.
The move expands upon the seven initial accusations outlined in a no-confidence motion filed by PM Eke against former Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku, who resigned after realising he lacked the support to survive the vote.
Political Fallout Continues
The alleged reports intensified the political turmoil that preceded Hu’akavameiliku’s resignation.
As Kaniva News reported recently, Tonga’s Supreme Court has cleared the way for the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to proceed with its judicial review against the National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) and its Board of Directors, marking a historic first for the fledgling agency.
During an engaging dialogue with Tongan students at the University of the South Pacific (USP) in Fiji this week, His Majesty King Tupou VI shared valuable life lessons, but it was his reference to a mysterious figure named Tavi that sparked the most curiosity.
His Majesty King Tupou VI of the Kingdom of Tonga inspected a 100-member Guard of Honour mounted by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), under the command of Parade Commander Captain Maikale Beranage, during a formal ceremony held at the State House today. Photo/Fiji Government (Facebook)
King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u were meeting the students after arriving in Fiji on Tuesday, where they received a formal traditional welcome at State House in Suva.
His Majesty was honoured with a 100-man guard of honour and conferred the title of Honorary Companion of the Order of Fiji.
Following the ceremony, the royal couple travelled to Lakeba in Lau to witness the historic installation of Ratu Tevita Lutunauga Kapaiwai Uluilakeba Mara as Turaga Tui Nayau, Sau ni Vanua ko Lau, and Tui Lau.
Their Majesties’ meeting with the students at ‘Api Tonga (also known as the Tongan Community Centre), on Laucala Bay Road in Suva, Fiji, directly opposite the University of the South Pacific (USP), has been described as “productive and unique.”
Royal Wisdom: Life’s Principles and Tonga’s Mysterious Danish Sage
In his opening remarks, His Majesty recounts points made by an Australian minister, Dr. Geoffrey Cummins, who studied King Tupou I, regarded as the “Builder of Modern Tonga.”
He highlighted the five important priorities attributed to King George Tupou I, comparing them to the five fingers of a hand.
He explained that the thumb represents religion, the foundation of life. The index finger stands for education, the path to progress. The middle finger symbolises development, the bond that unites society. The ring finger signifies traditions, the core of cultural identity. Finally, the little finger embodies freedom, the right to determine one’s future.
Before sharing this wisdom, however, the king paused and asked the students if any of them knew about a man named Tavi. None did. Intrigued, His Majesty then revealed the fascinating story of this enigmatic foreigner who became a legend in Tonga.
Tavi, as the king recounted, was a Scandinavian intellectual who arrived in Tonga in the 1950s. Born in Denmark, he grew up during the turmoil of Nazi occupation in World War II. After earning a degree in civil engineering, he first travelled to the United States, working as a civil engineer in San Francisco and helping construct one of the city’s major tunnels.
After saving enough money, he purchased a small sailboat and, along with a companion, sailed across the Pacific to Tahiti. From there, he continued alone to Tonga—a daring feat at the time, especially without modern navigation aids.
As documented by Thomas A. Riddle, a Peace Corps Volunteer who arrived in Tonga in 1974, he formed a friendship with Tavi, a Dane who had become disillusioned with Western society. By the age of 30, Tavi was even considering suicide if he could not find a more meaningful existence. His search for purpose ultimately led him to Tonga, attracted by its independent monarchy and resistance to foreign domination.
Upon his arrival, Tavi’s remarkable voyage caught the attention of the royal family. He soon met the late Queen Sālote Tupou III and the future King Tāufa‘āhau Tupou IV – King Tupou VI’s father.
Myth and Legacy: The Dual Life of Tavi
Adopted into Tongan nobility, he became a trusted advisor, contributing his engineering skills and his keen intellect to important projects, including the Free Wesleyan Church in Ha‘ateiho for then Noble Havea Tu’i Ha’ateiho. The church is known for its distinctive design, which is considered an iconic local attraction. Tavi also engineered a sawmill in ‘Eua. He also played a role in the construction of a building for Princess Pilolevu at Tufumāhina, where Tavi once lived.
Tavi also lived on Hunga Tonga island after being settled there by Noble Havea Tu’i Ha’ateiho. He also spent much of his time in Niuatoputapu and Tafahi.
Tavi’s lifestyle was known to be extraordinarily simple, almost ascetic, of Biblical proportions, akin to a modern-day John the Baptist. He slept naked on a rock and ate nothing but papaya (called “papaw” in Australia). According to Thomas, a neighbour once remarked that the three smartest men in Tonga were King Tupou IV (the first Tongan to earn a university degree), Professor Futa Helu (founder of the country’s only university), and Tavi himself.
Yet beyond his professional contributions, Tavi was known for his almost mythical reputation. One famous tale recounts how, while travelling by boat to New Zealand, the vessel became lost at sea.
RIGHT In 2006, Tavi’s Danish biographer, Leif Møller gave me this picture of Tavi. This must be Tavi’s hut on Hunga.LEFT Tavi. Photo/Thomas A Riddle
The desperate captain turned to Tavi for help. After lying quietly on the deck in deep thought, Tavi suddenly stood up, pointed in a specific direction, and the ship soon reached its destination.
In his later years, Tavi chose a life of solitude, retreating to the remote island of Tafahi. But his legacy lived on as a symbol of wisdom, resilience, and cultural exchange.
According to Thomas, the last place Tavi lived in Tonga was in the palace on ‘Eua before the two parted ways, never to meet again.
Thomas reported that Tavi returned to Denmark in 1991 or 1992 and died on April 11, 1995. Officially, his death was attributed to a heart attack. Unofficially, however, it is said that when doctors informed him his legs would need to be amputated, he chose to end his life by overdosing on medication. In other words—true to his nature—he found his own symbolic cliff’s edge, much like the one he and Thomas had once marked on ‘Eua. Rather than endure a diminished existence, he used his intellect one final time to leap into eternity.
Peace be with you, Tavi.
The King’s Message
King Tupou VI’s decision to mention Tavi in his address last week remains open to interpretation.
Perhaps it was a reminder of the value of education and tradition, themes central to both Tavi’s life and the king’s advice. Or maybe it was a nod to the unexpected ways in which outsiders have shaped Tonga’s history.
For the students present, the story served as a powerful lesson: sometimes, the most profound wisdom comes from the unlikeliest of sources. And now, when asked, “Who is Tavi?”—they will know.
Western Australia Police have issued a public appeal for assistance in locating 27-year-old Tongan national Sione Ashworth, who has been missing since Wednesday night.
Missing person Sione Ashworth, 27. Last seen 9 July 2025. Contact WA Police on 131 444 with any information.
Ashworth was last seen at 8.25pm on 9 July 2025, and concerns are growing for his welfare.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Ashworth may be travelling in a white Toyota Prado station sedan with WA registration 1HZE 571.
The vehicle has a yellow high-visibility stripe along the sides and a black bull bar.
Ashworth is a 27-year-old man, approximately 185cm (6’1”) tall, with a slim build, dark complexion, brown hair, and brown eyes.
He has a distinctive large tattoo around his neck.
Police are urging anyone who sees Ashworth, his vehicle, or has any information on his whereabouts to contact WA Police immediately on 131 444.
“Concerns are held for his welfare and Police are urging anyone who sees Sione ASHWORTH, or who has any information relating to his whereabouts, to call police immediately on 131 444,” a police Facebook post said.
A Fijian court has further remanded a Tongan national and two Fijian citizens after being charged with drug-related offences.
Tongan national Mafua Afimeimounga appears in a Fiji court after being charged with possession of methamphetamine and cannabis. He and two Fijian co-accused have been further remanded until July 25. Photo/Screenshot (Fiji Sun video)
The trio was allegedly found in possession of methamphetamine and cannabis at a hotel in Suva.
The accused have been identified as Mafua Afimeimounga (Tongan citizen) and Fijians Mohammed Aziz and Merelita Kusuna.
According to Fiji’s FBC news, the trio has each been charged with possession of 2.260 grams of methamphetamine and 1.4 grams of cannabis.
“The court also heard that Afimeimounga is facing a separate but similar charge related to methamphetamine possession,” the paper said.
Bail was denied for all three, with the prosecution arguing that methamphetamine remains a serious national concern and raising the risk of the accused absconding.
The case was called in court this week, where their bail applications were reviewed.
However, the court deferred a formal decision, and the three will reappear on July 25 for further proceedings regarding their bail status.
This incident follows a series of recent drug busts in Fiji, where authorities have intensified operations targeting both local and transnational drug networks.
The case underscores the challenges Tongan and Fijian authorities face in combating drug abuse.
A case currently being heard in a Fijian court is being described as Fiji’s largest-ever drug bust, involving the alleged importation of more than 4.15 tonnes of methamphetamine.
A Tongan court is hearing the case of a National Reserve Bank (NRBT) employee arrested with roughly 15kg of cocaine seized from the bank.
