Home Blog Page 7

Air New Zealand cancels ANZAC Day Tonga flight as cause remains unclear

By
Kalino Latu
-

An Air New Zealand flight scheduled to arrive in Tonga in the early hours of ANZAC Day has been cancelled, disrupting travel for passengers heading to Nukuʻalofa.

Air New Zealand flight NZ0977, also operating under Singapore Airlines codeshare SQ4285, was due to arrive at Fuaʻamotu International Airport at 12.45am on Saturday, 25.

The flight has since been cancelled.

While the airline has yet to issue an official explanation for the cancellation, Kaniva News understands—based on information circulating on social media—that an incident at Fuaʻamotu Airport may have temporarily blocked the runway, preventing the aircraft from landing.

Details surrounding the reported runway incident remain limited, and it is unclear how long the runway was closed or whether other flights were affected.

Kaniva News has sought clarification from Air New Zealand and airport authorities regarding the cause of the incident and any impact on upcoming flights.

Passengers have been advised to check directly with their airline for rebooking information and further updates.

Tongans remember volunteers from the islands who served in First World War

By
Kalino Latu
-

Revisited:

As Anzac Day dawn services begin on Saturday, Tongans will remember the 94 young men from the islands who answered the call to serve in the First World War.

The young men who enlisted were mainly expatriate Europeans who had been born in or worked in the kingdom, but several Tongans also enlisted.

A roll call of the names of those who fought in the 1914-18 war contains familiar Tongan names: Fotu, Faletau, Tu’inukuafe, Taliaʻuli, Lomu and Mohenoa.

There are European names like Leger, Mahoney, Cowley, Sanft, Muller, Payne, Hurrel, Harper, Ramsay, Walter and Lynch which are still attached to large families on Tonga

Among those who went to war were people who rose to prominence later in life, such as Sateki Faletau, who served in the Maori Contingent and the New Zealand Medical Corps and later became  Governor of Vava’u and Minister for Police.

But there are many more others with more ordinary backgrounds: Bakers, teachers, storekeepers and traders who came home after the war and went back to their trades and professions.

Only one Tongan died during the war. He was Sione Talia’uli, who died of pneumonia in 1918. He is buried in Palestine.

The names of the volunteers from Tonga or those with a connection to the kingdom have been gathered together in a new book by Christine Liava’a, Koe Kau To’a Na’anau Poletau. Valiant Volunteers: Soldiers from Tonga in the Great War.

On Monday some of the names from the book were read out on the Kaniva Tonga Radio Programme.

The broadcast prompted a call from  Hehea Sina Faletau who told us that her grandfather, Sateki Faletau had gone to war.

His son, Maile Faletau, served during the Second World War as a medical officer.

There was pride in Hehea’s voice as she explained the connection with Sateki.

Here are the list of the Tongan soldiers taken from Christine Liava’a’s book.

Frederick Bruno Delamere, whose original name was Waldermar Bruno Sanft, was a maritime engineer who had trained with J.H. Adams of New Zealand for six years. When he enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF), he claimed to be of British nationality. In reality he was a German subject as his parents, Franz Carl Sanft and Martha Agnes Lehmann Sanft were both Germans, although living in Tonga.

Joseph Clarence Hughes was a musician, aged 30, born in Tonga. He enlisted in the AIF in the Australian Imperial Force in June 1916.

Edward Stewart James was a veterinary surgeon. He was the son of the Rev. C E James and was born in Tonga on November 29, 1889, when his father was working there.

Claude Napier King was born in Charters Towers, Queensland, but was living in Nuku’alofa in 1915. He was killed in action on August 8, 1918, by a sniper. His body was not recovered.

Walter Leyden was a son of John Henry Leyden or Lyden and Cecilia Elizabeth Leyden (nee Johnson) of Vava’u, Tonga.

Robert Hugh McGlew was an Englishman who was born in Sydney, New South Wales. He was an accountant working in Tonga and was 36 when he listed in Adelaide, South Australia, in 1917.

Harry Monk was an Englishman who was born in West Auckland and migrated to Australia and then Tonga. He was a surveyor and a member of the Nuku’aofa Club.

James Egan Moulton was the grandson of the Rev James Egan Moulton, founder of Tupou College.

Alfred Egbert Roberts was the son of John Hartley Roberts, Director of Education for Tonga and principal of Tonga College in the 1880s.

John Trotter was appointed as second assistant teacher at Tonga College in 1914, then became Government plantation manager.

Reverend J Laurent F Benezeth was a Marist brother in Tonga. Born in 1881, he is listed on the Tongan War Memorial

Reverend Camille Doizy was a Marist brother in Tonga, born 1884. He left Tonga for France during the war and is listed on the Tongan War Memorial.

William Kanani Rudling was born in Hawai’i in 1896, the son of Thomas George Rudling and his Hawai’ian wife Eugenia Kahele. The family moved to Tonga where T.G. Rudling became the Assistant Collector of Customs and Postmaster in Vava’u

John William Alo.

Charles William Boyer travelled to Auckland from Tonga in early 1916 and joined the 4th Maori Contingent. He was a Lance Corporal in the No 1 Platoon.

Sateki Faletau of Vava’u was a medical student and hospital attendant in Tonga. He was born at Neiafu, Vava’u on October 24, 1894 and came to New Zealand in July 1916, aged 21. He enlisted and served as a Lance Corporal in the Maori Contingent. He embarked for England on October 11, 1916 from Wellington on the Tofua, but was discharged there as medically unfit. He returned to New Zealand then re-enlisted in 1919 in the New Zealand Medical Corps. He was finally discharged in 1920 and returned to Tonga, where he later married Celia Elizabeth Leyden, also of Vava’u. He is listed on the Tongan War Memorial.

His full name was Sateki Veikune Faletau and he became the Hon. Siosateki Veikuna Faletau, 11th ‘Akau’ola, on December 8, 1932. He was Governor of Vava’u between 1936 – 1939, then Lieutenant-Colonel of the Tonga Defence Force  during the Second World War and Minister for Police 1939-1952. The late Hon. Siaosi Filiapulotu Faletau, 12th ‘Akau’ola, the late Hon. ‘Inoke Fotu Faletau, 13th ‘Akau’ola, and the Rev Sione Faletau are his sons. His son Maile Faletau also served during the Second World War.

John Harper was a storekeeper for Burns Philp in Tonga.  His next of kin was listed as his mother, Mrs Emele Harper of Nuku’alofa. His aunt was Mafikiholeva Percival. In 1916, after being escorted to Auckland because of his intemperate habits, he sailed on the troopship Navua.

Edwin Hughes was a baker and carpenter in Neiafu, Vava’u.

Guy Robert Jury was the son of Captain Jury, a part-Maori settler in Tongatapu with plantations at Fo’ui and Nukunuku

Baisley Leger was the son of James Paul Leger and Mereste Magila Tiumala, both born in Samoa but living in Nuku’alofa since 1897. He was a boat builder who enlisted in New Zealand in 1915, with the Rarotongans attached to B company, 3rd Maori Contingent. He served as a Sergeant and was wounded in a gas attack and evacuated to the 7th Field Ambulance, then to a Convalescent Hospital in France. He married Sela Vete in 1920 and they travelled to New Zealand in 1920. He later married Amelia Toli. He died in Auckland in 1973.

Francis Leger was a seaman, born in 1898, the brother of Baisley Leger. He served in France in the Pioneer Battalion. He returned to Tonga and married Meleane Fatafehi. He died in Vava’u in 1967 and listed on the Tongan War Memorial

David Loma or Lomu was an assistant Harbourmaster of Nuku’alofa, the son of Mafu. He enlisted in the 7th Maori Reinforcement as a Private and embarked from Wellington on August 16, 1916, for England. He is listed on the Tongan War Memorial.

Ernest Mitchell travelled to New Zealand from Vava’u in 1916.

Wiliam Robert Moore, aged 28, was a carpenter who arrived in Auckland from Ha’apai aboard Talune on June 19, 1916.

Adolph Muller was a farmer in Tonga, brother of Miki Muller of Nuku’alofa. They were of Swiss/Samoan descent, being sons of Phillip Muller and Philomena Laukiki.  He served in Egypt and Palestine. He returned to Tonga and married Mel Tatafu Fotofili in 1920. He is listed on the Tongan War Memorial. He died in 1960.

Francis Alfred Payne was a farmer who enlisted in Takapuna, Auckland on  November 9, 1915. He was born in 1896 in Tonga, a descendent of Alfred Payn and Oli Leva. He embarked from Wellington on February 5, 1916. He returned to New Zealand and was discharged on October 24, 1916. He remained in New Zealand and married Elsie Sunckell from Akaroa in 1920. He served in the Second World War. He died in 1957 in Ashburton, New Zealand, while on holiday.

James Victor Silva, of Portuguese descent, was born in New Zealand in 1889, son of Emanuel and Ethel Elizabeth (Edwards) Silva, but was a carpenter in Nuku’alofa.

Parker Stout Skeen was a cousin of Reginald Skeen. He was a son of Robert Lowis Skeen from New Zealand, chief justice of Tonga and his wife Eliza Fruean.

Sione Taliauli of Nuku’alofa was a young medical student training with Dr Bennett of Blenheim, New Zealand, when war broke out in August 1914.  In October 23, 1915 he enlisted in Blenheim and joined the 3rd Maori Contingent as a Private. They trained at Narrow Neck Camp in Auckland then left for Egypt from Wellington in February 1916 on the troopship Navua. On arrival at Suez, he was transferred to various camps within Egypt, appointed temporarily Corporal and then admitted to hospital in Cairo. He died of pneumonia in October 1918. He is buried in Ramallah in Palestine.  Sione Taliauli had a child Bakelo or Pakola in Tonga. His medals, the British War Medal and the Victory Medal, were sent to the child care of his aunt Alilua, of Kolofo’ou in 1923. He is listed on the Tongan War Memorial.

George Tu’inukuafe was the son of john Tu’inukuafe (Sione Tuafusi) of Vava’u. He was born in Falepa. He arrived in Auckland in June 18, 1917 as a native clerk and worked as a gardener. He returned to New Zealand in December 1918 and was discharged there at his own request, in March 1919.

Willie John Vea was born on December 19, 1894, and was a medical student from Nuku’alofa. He travelled to New Zealand in 1918. He married Sisilia Fatafehi Tupou  in August 1917. He was discharged on December 5, 1918, and returned to Tonga.

Robin Wilkinson Archer was born at Vuna Point, Taviuni, Fiji on April 21, 1874. He was a printer in Tonga.

Augustus Ofa Talauu Chamberlin was born in Nuku’alofa, Tonga in 1895.

Guy Waller Chamberlin, the brother of Ofa, was born in Tonga on August 9, 1898, and served as Private 76528

George Adrian Chester, an Englishman, a civil servant in Tonga Vava’u in 1915.

Henry William Cocker was the grandson of Joshua Cocker, the first British Consul in Tonga.

Joseph North Cocker was another grandson of Joshua Cocker, the first British Consul in Tonga.

Harold Eric Coleman lived in Tonga until early 1915.

Albert William Cook was a seaman born in 1894, the son of Albert William Cook.

Ralph Tugi Cowley  was one of the Cowley family who are bakers in Nuku’alofa. He was the eldest son of Alfred and Mary Harriette Cowley originally from Derbyshire, England who arrived in Nuku’alofa in 1885. According to a death notice inserted in the New Zealand Herald by his sister Mrs Morre. He was aged 16 years and 10 months when he died. He is listed on the Tongan War Memorial.

Roy Leslie Donaldson was born in 1889 in Raglan and is listed on the Tonga War Memorial.

Otto Fiedler was the son of John Fiedler of Nuku’alofa.

Dan Flood was a Customs officer born in 1898, whose mother, Mrs J.H. Spurr, lived in Whakatane. He arrived in New Zealand from Tonga in February 1916.

William Flower was a New Zealand railways clerk born in Nuku’alofa in 1898.

Tevita or David Fotu was born on March 19, 1888, in Nuku’alofa, the son of Nai Fotu of Tonga. He was a school teacher employed by the Tongan Education Board. He became a forestry worker at Woodhill, north of Auckland. He died in 1952 aged 64 and was cremated at Purewa Cemeter, Auckland.

Alexander Charles Taufa Goedicke was born in Tonga in May 1896.

Henry Hammerell was born in Samoa and was of Swedish descent. He was married to Alice Rose Cocker. He was killed at the battle of Messines on June 7, 1917. His wife remarried to Taniela Tu’ipulotu Kama of Maofaga. He is listed on the Tongan War Memorial.

George Hurrel was the son of James and Amelia Hurrell nee Lomu of Ha’apai. He was a boat builder born on April 1, 1898 although he gave the date as 1895 on his enlistment papers. He died of  influenza while serving in France in July 1918. His father in Tonga received his medals- the British war medal and the Victory Medal in 1921 and 1922 respectively.

Arnold Woodford Izard was the Chief Medical Officer in Tonga in 1914.

Leo Reginald (Mick) Jury was a New Zealand Maori from Wairarapa who had settled at Fo’ui Tongatapu.

Francis Henry Leyden was born in Tonga, the son of John Henry and Cecilia Leyden of Vava’u. He had been in the 2nd reserves and was training at Featherson Camp in Wairarpa when he died of influenza on December 5,  1918 aged 38.  His niece Celia or Silia Leyden, a daughter of his brother Robert Leyden, married Sateki Faletau Akau’ola in Vava’u in 1934

James Michael Lynch was the son of Martin and Clara Lynch (nee Parons) of Vava’u. The family moved to Auckland in the early 1900s. He returned to Tonga. James was a Private in the Auckland Infantry Battalion. He embarked for England on June 26, 1916. He returned to New Zealand, then moved to Tonga. He married Sela Tapuaka and later Mele Siale. He returned to New Zealand in the 1950s and died in 1961 aged 74. He is listed on the Tongan War Memorial.

Alfred Patrick Lynch was the brother of James Lynch.

Brian Gerald Mahoney was working in Vava’u, Tonga. He served as a Sergeant in the Auckland Regiment, was commissioned into the Royal Munster Fusiliers in 1917 and then attached to the Royal Air Force. According to a report in the Otago Daily Times he was killed in a flying accident on September 3, 1918.

William Handcock Mackay was a trader working for M.Muller at Tabikofe, Tongatapu and living in Nukunuku.

Tevita Mohenoa (Divit Mohenor) was a ship’s steward, living in New Zealand. His father was Esefe (Esafe) Mohenoa of Nuku’alofa.

Llewellyn Martin Nicholas born on January 18, 1876 in New Zealand and was a trader in Vava’u.

John Oswald was a trader in Tonga and served as a storeman.

Edward Lesley Joseph Parker was born in Tonga on November 2, 1884, and educated there. His brother Francis Robert Parker was born in Eua, Tonga, in 1874

Jack Parsons was born in Tongatapu on 25 March 1896.

William Parsons was the brother of Jack Parsons and was born in Tonga on May 1, 1894.

Thomas William and Harry Parsons were cousins of Jack Parsons and William Parsons, who were part Tongan, and also served in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force.

Charles Stuart Ramsey was the brother of Robert Campbell Ramsey and Arthur Gordon Ramsay. Charles return to Tonga and lived in Niuafo’ou. He is listed on the Tongan War Memorial.

Robert Campbell Ramsay was the brother of Charles Stuart Ramsey, who was born in England in 1890. He won the Military Medal in October 1918 for his actions during an attack on German guns and tanks.

Owen Robert Ricks was born in Canada and was a storekeeper in Tonga.

William Douglas Robbins was an Englishman and a trader at Mu’a. He had been in Tonga since 1910.

Thomas Victor Roberts was the son of John Hartley Roberts, the director of Education and Principal of Tonga College in the 1880s. He was born in Australia in 1880. He worked for the Bank of Australasia and in 1899 he went to Tonga as Chief Clerk in the Customs Dept. He later became Treasurer of Tonga and Assistant Premier in 1907. He spoke Tongan fluently.

Reginald William Skeen was the nephew of Robert Lowis Skeen, the Chief Justice of Tonga. Reginald spent time in Tonga and is named in the Tongan War Memorial.

Robert Stout Skeen was a cousin of Reginald Skeen, son of Robert Lowis Skeen, Chief Justice of Tonga. Robert was a printer’s apprentice in Nuku’alofa.

George Joshua Skudder was a son of George Charles Skudder. George Joshua Skudder returned to Tonga and married Meletonga Prescott, with whom he had 11 chioldren.

Stanley Benjamin Skudder was another son of George Charles Skudder. He returned to Tonga and marry Mele Talia Tupou and had five children. He is also listed on the Tongan War Memorial.

Victor Percy Stuart worked as a clerk for Burns Philp in Tonga. He died in Auckland and is listed on the Tongan War Memorial

William Karmer Walter was born in Maofaga in 1888, the son of Carlos Kramer-Walter from Brazil.

Afelei was possibly a Nuiean living in Tonga. He is mentioned in the Tongan War Memorial.

Fata, a volunteer aged 23, was born in Niue. He arrived in Auckland from Nuku’alofa, Tonga aboard the Talune on on December 6, 1915.

Lauho, a 22 years-old volunteer from Niue, arrived in Auckland from Nuku’alofa, Tonga aboard the Talune on December 6, 1915. His last residence was Tonga, Nuku’alofa.

Mata’afi, a 27 years-old Niuean volunteer, arrived in Auckland aboard the Talune from Nuku’alofa, Tonga

Sino Folitau was a seaman born in Niue in 1888 who arrived in Auckland from Tonga on March 28, 1916.

K Inoke Utonika Thomas, 20, was of partly Tongan descent. He enlisted as no.22 in the 3rd Fiji Contingent on 15 April 1918.

Joseph Ratabua Vave was 21 when he enlisted in the 3rd Fiji Contingent. He was of Fijian and Tongan descent. He was the son of the Methodist minister of Davuilevu, Fiji who in turn was the son of the Rev. Mataiasi Vave from Masilamea, Tongatapu, one of the original Tongan Missionaries to Fiji.

Eminioni Kadivuki was of mixed Tokelauan and Tongan decsent. He was age 20 when he joined the 3rd Fiji Contingent

  1. Barlow is listed on the Tongan War Memorial
  2. Brown from Ha’apai was born in Scotland. He was 29 when he arrived in Auckland on November 7, 1915 from Tonga. He is listed on the Tongan War Memorial.
  3. J. Chapman lived in Vava’u in 1915. He is listed on the Tongan War Memorial.

B Ferguson is listed on the Tongan War Memorial.

Jack Harrison lived in Vava’u in 1915. He is listed on the Tongan War Memorial

Mr Folita (possibly Sino Folitau) was born in Tonga and arrived in Auckland aboard the Talune on March 28, 1916, from Nuku’alofa.

  1. Johnstone is listed on the Tongan War Memorial

W.A. Lee is listed on the Tongan War Memorial.

A.A Smith is listed on the Tongan War Memorial.

Mr Leiden (first name uncertain, but not Walter Leyden or Francis Leyden) was born in Tonga and served in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. He was 24 when he arrived in arrived Auckland on March 28, 1916 from Tonga.

Mr Teliti (first name uncertain) served in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. He was 27 when he arrived in Auckland from Tonga March 28, 1916.

William Duncan was a Scotsman born in 1875. He was an agent in Nuku’alofa

James Ferguson Scott.

Arthur F.L. Tindall had lived in Tonga for many years as a trader. He was living at Remuera, Auckland as an Island merchant when he enlisted in the 1st Reserves.

Editor’s note

I would like to thank Christine Liava’a for allowing Kaniva Tonga News to use the list of soldiers and their backgrounds from her book,  Koe Kau To’a Na’anau Poletau. Valiant Volunteers: Soldiers from Tonga in the Great War.

You can contact the author at cliavaa@gmail.com if you would like to buy her book.

The book is published by Polygraphianz. The publisher’s website is www.polygraphianz.com

Telling the story of Tonga’s soldiers

Christine Liava’a has written a number of books bringing together the names and biographical details of soldiers from the Pacific islands who volunteered in the First World War.

She began her work on the Tongan book after completing a history of Fijian soldiers. She had also written about soldiers from Samoa and the central pacific islands.

She had earlier republished the index of Niuean solders from Margaret Pointer’s book Tagi Tote E Loto Haaku- My Heart is Crying, a history of the Niuean Contingent in the First World War.

Of those who volunteered from Tonga, she said most were foreigners living in the kingdom.

However, many had Tongan relatives.

“I actually expected that, because it was the same in Fiji,” she said.

“But I was surprised to find that a few actual Tongans did enlist, particularly since they did not need to, were not asked to, and were not British citizens.”

Liava’a said she was disappointed that she had received so little response to the book and hoped that more people would become interested in the soldiers.

The author will be giving a talk at the Auckland War Memorial Museum at the Te Kakano section at 12.30pm on Anzac Day.

She will also be appearing on Tangata Pasifika.

The main points

  • As the sun rises on Anzac Day dawn services this Saturday, Tongans will remember the 94 young men from the islands who served in the First World War.
  • The young men who enlisted were mainly expatriate Europeans who had been born in or worked in the kingdom, but several Tongans also enlisted.
  • The only Tongan to die in the war was Sione Talia’uli’, who was buried in Palestine in 1918.
  • The names of the volunteers from Tonga have been gathered together in a new book by Christine Liava’a, Koe Kau To’a Na’anau Poletau. Valiant Volunteers: Soldiers from Tonga in the Great War.

For more information

Passion for History (Fiji Times interview with Christine Liava’a)

WWI: Tongan soldiers struggled in a strange land (New Zealand Herald)

Anzac Day in the Pacific

To find out more about individual soldiers, including service records and numbers, you can search the records at these museums:

New Zealand National Army Museum

Australian War  Memorial

The National Archives (UK)

Tongan rugby player accused of rape in New Zealand loses name suppression

By
Kaniva Staff
-

A former Tongan rugby player facing serious sexual charges in New Zealand has lost interim name suppression, allowing his identity to be made public.

Taumuʻa Lui Naeata, 32, is charged with six counts of sexual violation, including one charge of rape and five charges of unlawful sexual connection.

The alleged offending is reported to have occurred on December 8, 2024, in Dunedin.

All six charges relate to a single complainant, according to Stuff. Naeata has entered not guilty pleas to each of the charges.

Naeata had previously been granted interim name suppression, but that suppression has now lapsed.

The former professional rugby player spent six years playing club rugby in Japan before returning to New Zealand.

Ahead of the 2025 Super Rugby season, Stuff described Naeata as a “wildcard selection,” noting his size and overseas experience.

Weighing approximately 118 kilograms, the loose forward made three appearances off the bench for Otago during the 2024 National Provincial Championship (NPC) season.

The case remains before the courts.

Niua 17 MP retains parliamentary seat pending court of appeal ruling

By
Kalino Latu
-

Nukuʻalofa, Tonga — The People’s Representative for the Niua 17 constituency, Lataʻifangataʻa Tangimana, will continue to serve as a Member of the Legislative Assembly pending a final decision by the Court of Appeal, following a stay of execution granted by the Supreme Court.

MP Lata’ifaingata’a Tangimana

Tangimana was convicted of electoral bribery by the Supreme Court on 24 March 2026, following findings that he distributed fish to voters in September 2025, and has recently resigned as Minister of Finance.

The Legislative Assembly confirmed this morning that the execution of a certificate declaring Tangimana’s election void has been formally stayed, meaning he will not be unseated at this time.

The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly received a certificate on 9 April 2026 from the Honourable Justice Garlick KC, certifying that the Supreme Court had declared the Niua 17 parliamentary election void as a result of an election petition, CV54/2025 Finau v Tangimana.

Following receipt of the certificate, a notice was issued on 13 April 2026 informing Members of Parliament that the Legislative Assembly would meet on 27 April 2026. The sole purpose of that meeting was to unseat the People’s Representative for Niua 17 in accordance with the Supreme Court’s ruling.

However, the Legislative Assembly later received a further letter from Justice Garlick KC on Monday, 20 April 2026, advising of a court ruling dated 11 April 2026 that granted a stay of execution of the certificate issued on 9 April.

The stay of execution effectively pauses the enforcement of the Supreme Court decision while the matter is under appeal. The appeal has now been formally filed with the Court of Appeal, which is scheduled to convene in July 2026.

As a result of the stay, the Legislative Assembly confirmed that the meeting scheduled for 27 April 2026 has been cancelled, and that Hon. Tangimana will remain in his parliamentary seat until the appeal process is concluded.

“Pursuant to the Court Ruling dated 11 April 2026, the Legislative Assembly will stay the execution of the Certificate issued by the Court on 9 April 2026,” the press release stated. “This means that the Legislative Assembly will not unseat the People’s Representative for Niua 17 from his parliamentary seat until a decision is made by the Court of Appeal.”

King’s dissatisfaction over Matatoa land lease delays opening of World Bank–funded headquaters

By
Kalino Latu
-

Nukuʻalofa, Tonga — The official opening of the new government headquarters in Tonga has reportedly been postponed after King Tupou VI raised concerns about the land on which the building stands.

The newly completed Tonga Meteorological Service and National Emergency Management Office (TMS/NEMO) headquarters at Matatoa, funded under the World Bank–supported Pacific Resilience Program (PREP).

The development comes amid an ongoing pattern of tensions between the Monarch and recent administrations, which have previously included the dissolution of Parliament, formal criticism of government and parliamentary conduct, and a declaration of no confidence in the government.

The opening ceremony, which was scheduled to take place in February and was expected to be officiated by the King, has been delayed due to unresolved issues relating to the lease of His Majesty’s land at Matatoa, where the new office complex has been constructed.

Details of the lease dispute have not yet been publicly clarified.

According to reports in local Tongan media, the King has allegedly expressed his dissatisfaction with aspects of the land lease arrangement in a letter reportedly addressed to the relevant authorities.

The building houses the headquarters of the Tonga Meteorological Service and the National Emergency Management Office (TMS/NEMO), a key component of the Pacific Resilience Program (PREP) Tonga Project.

Attempts to obtain comment from the relevant authorities were unsuccessful.

Disaster Resilience Milestone Reached

The government led by Hu’akavameiliku signed the construction contract for the headquarters in 2023, marking a major step forward for disaster preparedness and climate resilience in the Kingdom.

At the time, the government described the signing as a significant milestone for the PREP Tonga Project, following months of discussions, negotiations, delays, and logistical challenges. The project aims to strengthen Tonga’s capacity to manage natural hazards and climate-related risks, particularly in light of the country’s vulnerability to cyclones, earthquakes, and volcanic activity, it said.

The PREP Tonga Project was funded by the World Bank as part of its broader support for disaster risk management and climate resilience across the Pacific region. The project focuses on improving early warning systems, emergency response coordination, and institutional capacity.

The design and supervision of the TMS/NEMO headquarters were undertaken by Erasito Consultants Limited, a Fiji-owned engineering consultancy firm, while construction was carried out by local contractor Puloka Construction Limited.

Public invited to dispute land returns under legal rulings, but 10‑year limit yet unexplained

By
Kalino Latu
-

Nukuʻalofa – The Ministry of Lands has issued a public notice inviting members of the public to come forward if they wish to dispute land that was returned to the government following legal rulings, offering affected individuals an opportunity to formally challenge those outcomes.

Seputy Prime Minister Dr Taniela Fusimalohi

The development comes amid an ongoing investigative reform by the Ministry into alleged corruption and abuse in land dealings, which officials say could lead to former and current staff members—and members of the public—being brought to justice.

As Kaniva News has previously reported, the Ministry has been among the most frequently criticised government departments, often drawing public complaints and dissatisfaction.

Past coverage by this outlet relating to the Ministry has consistently generated strong reactions on social media, with many readers sharing their personal experiences and concerns about its services.

In a notice shared publicly by Taniela Fusimalohi, the Minister of Lands, the Ministry clarified that the call relates to town allotments and hereditary land allotments that were returned to the government as a result of court decisions or other judicial or administrative processes.

The Minister said individuals who experienced such land returns and believe the legal rulings were not appropriately applied in their specific cases may now submit written disputes for review.

The Ministry has provided a dedicated email address for submissions and inquiries — complaints@lands.gov.to — as part of what it describes as a process to allow affected landholders to raise objections and seek clarification over past decisions made following legal rulings.

Land Law Timeframes

The Ministry did not specify how many cases may fall under the notice, nor did it outline a deadline for submissions.

The announcement also raises questions about how the law’s time limits on land disputes may apply in such cases.

Under Section 170 of the Tonga Land Act, legal action over land disputes is generally subject to a strict 10‑year limitation period, starting from when the right to bring the action first arose.

The provision is intended to provide certainty and finality in land ownership, but it remains unclear whether—and how—it may affect individuals now seeking to dispute land returns that occurred years earlier following legal rulings.

However, past court decisions indicate that the statutory time limit has generally been applied only to actions brought before the courts, suggesting that land returns processed outside the court system may not be subject to the same restriction.

All Blacks midfielder Fainga’anuku to start in loose fowards for Crusaders

By
Kaniva Staff
-

By rnz and us republished with permission

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.

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.

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 moves in as Fangaʻuta Lagoon bridge construction gets underway

By
Kalino Latu
-

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.

Person stabbed multiple times while waiting for bus in Auckland

By
Kaniva Staff
-

By 1News Reporters

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.

What to do, and not do, at an Anzac Day Dawn Service

By
Kaniva Staff
-

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.

Anzac Day 2023 commemorations in Wellington. People lay poppies at the conclusion of the dawn service.

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 Park
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.

An Anzac Day dawn service took place at Memorial Park in Hamilton.
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.

ANZAC day poppies
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.
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.

1...678...960Page 7 of 960