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14 year old Malia Pelenatita Kolo’s body returned to family

By
Kalino Latu
-

The body of the 14 year old girl Malia Pelenatita Kolo allegedly died from body injuries on August 16 has been returned to her family.

Kolo was reportedly rushed to Vaiola Hospital on August 15 after she was found lying helplessly by a visitor in a house in Nuku’alofa with bruises and severe body injuries. She died on August 16.

Post modem report says Kolo had sustained serious injuries and bruises. Police  released no further details  as the matter is now with the courts.

Three accused for the teenage girl’s death are her mother Fifita ‘Ofa, 34 with her brother Tomasi ‘Ofa, 37. They both charged with manslaughter, while a 42 year old woman Mohulamu Toumohuni is charged with aiding the ‘Ofas.

The mother was also reported to have been previously charged for violence against her own children.  She and her former husband, Kolo’s father have divorced.

The three accused appeared at the Nuku’alofa Magistrate’s Court on August 26 and were released on bail until September 30.

Tongan version for the New Zealand’s National Anthem

By
Kalino Latu
-

Thousands of Tongans all over Aotearoa will for the first time fully grasp the sacredness, sense of patriotism and belonging bestowed on New Zealand’s National anthem this Sunday, September 1 when a group of Tongans students will publicly perform the National Anthem in Tongan language.

It is part of the Tongan Language Week celebrations that runs from 1-7   September, which will be the main highlight at Pasifika Education Centre but organizers expected “this collaboration, schools, workplaces and churches around  New Zealand can ‘have a go’ at singing this anthem both during and  beyond Tongan Language Week”.

The collaboration has resulted in all five verses of the New Zealand national anthem being translated into Tongan. Alongside the
translation is the unique Tongan numbered notes.

Pasifika Education Centre CEO, Christine Nurminen says: “The Te Reo Maori and English version of the New Zealand national  anthem is known by generations of Tongans. Inspiration has been drawn  from both versions. To hear the national anthem sung in a Pacific language – is exciting”.

Choir rehearsals are underway with representatives from different  Tongan student groups from universities and tertiary institutes around  Auckland. Choirmaster Lea’aesola Vuna leads each rehearsal encouraging  correct pronunciation, pitch and reading of the unique Tongan musical  notes.

The first public performance of the anthem will take place as part of  a community programme on Sunday 1 September 2013 at the AIS St Helen’s  campus from 5.00pm.

Recording of the anthem will take place on Thursday 5th September at  the PEC office in Manukau City from 6.00pm. The recording will provide  an opportunity for the adult learners enrolled in PEC classes to take part.

In the spirit of the theme, it is expected that radio stations, online  communities will share the anthem through their networks.

“For NZTTSA, this collaboration has provided a learning opportunity  for the diverse Tongan students in different tertiary institutions to  come together and celebrate our unique Tongan music” says Tupoutu’a  Tu’akoi from the NZTTSA.

‘Alisi Tatafu, who also supports this collaboration says:

“We appreciate PEC approaching our national network. It makes sense to  consult and include youth and existing student associations as part of  a collective community effort to share Tongan language”.

Christine believes that this recreation is a genuine effort to  acknowledge the Tongans culture in New Zealand.

“Tongan values like love, respect, loyalty, faith and identity  resonant with other Pacific and diverse communities living in
Aotearoa”, she says

Martin Luther King: “I have a Dream……” 50th anniversary

By
Kalino Latu
-

Press Release Cadbury

Tomorrow is International Dream Day, a day of observation based on the values of creativity, collaboration and contribution. It is the first ever global day of observance that honours the dreamer in all of us and is celebrated with live, local, and viral events worldwide.

International Dream Day creates a magical synergy with Cadbury’s new initiative encouraging New Zealanders to celebrate the magic of their dreams. People are encouraged to share their dreams on cadburydreams.co.nz and Cadbury will soon be bringing some to life. Cadbury want New Zealanders to dream because good things happen when you go after your dreams.

Psychologist Barry Kirker believes, “Without dreams, individuals lack inspiration and aspiration. Read a biography about any famous person and you can see how they had a dream they worked towards.

“Even if a dream does not lead to actions and obtainments, it can be enjoyed for the pleasant thoughts and feelings it creates and a reminder of what it means to be alive. Imagine seeing a dream come true and what it feels like to experience it happening. Then think about what steps you need to take to make this dream happen.

“It is good for people to have both a practical dream, like having their own house with a veggie garden or having their own business; as well as an extraordinary dream, like climbing Mt Everest or having lunch with their favourite celebrity. Dreams involving loved ones can be particularly satisfying and powerful. People should allow themselves to dream on International Dream Day and share it at Cadbury.co.nz,” says psychologist Barry Kirker.

2013 International Dream Day marks the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King’s, “I have a dream” speech, illustrating the huge contribution dreams can make to the world. In the words of Eleanor Roosevelt, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”

Check out New Zealander’s dreams at the gallery of dreams on Cadburydreams.co.nz.

Halatau Naitoko: Police apologise for revealing details of compensation package

By
Kalino Latu
-

Fresh failings over the police  shooting of Halatau Naitoko, who was shot dead  when police were pursuing gunman Stephen McDonald along the Auckland’s northwestern motorway in January 2009, were officially admitted today Tuesday 27 when police breached  a confidentiality agreement in a compensation deal they made with the teenager’s mother, Ivoni Fuimaono.

A compensation package included $100,000 was initially offered to Naitoko’s family shortly after he died on conditions that the mother would “not to reveal” the name of the shooter to anyone no matter who they are, Fuimaono told Fairfax Media today.

The report also said “Police made her sign documents promising not to reveal the name, and if she did she could go to jail for three months”.

Police agreed “the original $100,000 would still be kept confidential. It was paid on the condition that she did not reveal the payment to friends, family, media or even her own lawyer”.

“Only the total sum of $225,000 was meant to be disclosed yesterday”.

But police yesterday police announced they have paid $250,000 to Fuimaono and they went further and reveaedl that there was a payment of $100,000 made to Fuimaono shortly after Naitoko died referring to the $100,000 that was agreed not to reveal.

Mrs Fuimaono  and his lawyer, Mr Pigeon said they had lunch today with police and “A lot was said. They (the police representative) expressed their very deep regret at what was apparently a breakdown in communication and she’s a very gracious woman and she’s accepted that and has instructed me to take no further action.

“Police acknowledged that a mistake occurred, we accepted that it was accidental and Ivoni has decided to continue with the settlement and move on.”

NZTRFA, Ashley Tonga team up to promote rugby tournament

By
Kalino Latu
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Officials and members of the New Zealand Tongan Rugby Football Association (NZTRFA) held a meet and greet on Saturday 24 with the drag queen diva and x factor entertainer Ashley Tonga to announce their joint effort in promoting NZTRFA upcoming rugby union tournament in September.

NZTRFA is a newly established body to promote local Tongan rugby players and to hold annual events to mark the heroic achievements of the  Tongan Ex-All Blacks rugby players,  Ikale Tahi and Tongan players in other New Zealand professional rugby teams according to the president ‘Emosi Koloto.

Its Seven’s tournament will kick off on September 7. Nine teams have already listed their names to join the tournament are Folaha, Manurewa, Vaini, Fasimoeafi, Mauna Kiekie, Tofoa, Kau Leka mei he South, Kolofo’ou and Saineha.   A $200 registration fee is required for each team.

Koloto warmly welcomed Ashley to the meeting and said he was inspired by her performance at the New Zealand X Factor 2013. He was thankful Ashley accepted his invitation to join NZTRFA with her talent as he knew for sure it would help spice up their upcoming events.

Ashley told the meeting last Saturday she was willing to help NZTFA’s fundraising.

“ I am happy to be part of your team and  do whatever I can do to help. I am proud to be Tongan and that is why I am here tonight,” Ashley said.

NZTRFA is planning to start the tournament in August 31 with a Fiefia Night  followed by a Prize Giving Night on September 14 where Ashley Tonga will hit the stage as the main performer of the night.

In June NZTRFA held a dinner at the Manurewa Rugby League Football Club as part of their annual programme  to acknowledge  Tongan rugby stars . Ex-All Blacks Charles Riechaelmann and Pita Alatini attended.

NZTRA was established on March 2013.

$225k compo following death of Halatau Naitoko

By
Kalino Latu
-

The New Zealand Police today announced they have agreed to a compensation package with the family of Halatau Naitoko who was tragically killed on Auckland’s north western motorway in January 2009.

Mr Naitoko’s family will receive compensation of $100,000 for the hardship and suffering caused by the 17 year old accidental death. The family will also receive $25,000 towards their legal costs. This is in addition to a payment of $100,000 the family received shortly after Halatau’s death. In total the compensation package is $225,000.

‘Police deeply and sincerely regret the accidental shooting of Mr Naitoko”, Assistant Commissioner Allan Boreham said. “For our officers, who dedicate their working lives to helping people, Halatau’s death was everything they were trying to prevent.”

“We offer once again our deepest sympathies to his family. They have conducted themselves with dignity and courage throughout this ordeal and we are truly sorry for their loss.

“The initial payment we made to Mr Naitoko’s family was kept confidential until the two parties agreed on a final settlement. It can now be disclosed as part of the overall compensation package.”

Mr Naitoko was killed when he was accidentally struck by a bullet as the Armed Offenders Squad apprehended Stephen McDonald on Auckland’s north western motorway on 23 January 2009.

Police had no option but to take action to stop Mr McDonald as he attempted to jump on a moving truck while aiming his gun at two officers.

Mr McDonald was injured and incapacitated but tragically Mr Naitoko, who was driving a van that was in the background of this moving incident, was hit by a bullet and killed.

“Police were dealing with a mobile, unpredictable, drug fuelled gunman who had threatened members of the public with a firearm and had fired at Police. There was a real threat to public safety”, Mr Boreham said. “To this day the staff involved remain devastated by Halatau Naitoko’s tragic death”.

In August 2011 Coroner Gordon Matenga concluded the shooting of Mr Naitoko was a tragic accident.

This finding was supported by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) who ruled that Police took appropriate and immediate action to subdue an offender whose objective was to evade arrest by any means.

Mr Boreham acknowledged that while both authorities concluded Mr Naitoko’s death was an accident Police made mistakes during the pursuit of Mr McDonald.

“We have made changes in line with the recommendations made by the Independent Police Conduct Authority”, Mr Boreham said.

“These steps will reduce the chances of another tragic accident occurring during an armed pursuit.”

Following the IPCA report several recommendations have been adopted include greater resourcing for the Armed Offenders Squad in Auckland, more training for communication centre staff and clarity on the role Police helicopters play during pursuits.

Mr Boreham paid tribute to the courage and leadership shown by Halatau’s mother Ivoni Fuimaono since her son’s death.

“Mrs Fuimaono is a woman of great standing within the South Auckland community both through her church and her work with youth programmes”, Mr Boreham said.

“She and her family have handled these tragic circumstances with great humility and dignity”.

 

Dr Ngongo Kioa appointed as new Reserve Bank Governor

By
Kalino Latu
-

A former Government of Tonga diplomat and High Commissioner to the United Kingdom has been appointed as the governor for the National Reserve Bank of Tonga.

In a statement, the Chairman and the Board of Directors of the National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Steve Edwards announced the appointment of Dr. Sione Ngongo Kioa as the new Governor of the National Reserve Bank.  It says the appointment will be for a term of 5 years effective from 21 August 2013.

As the 4th Governor of the National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Dr Kioa succeeds Mrs Siosi Cocker Mafi, who completed her 10- year term as Governor on the 5th July 2013. The principal objectives of the Reserve Bank of Tonga are to maintain internal and external monetary stability and promote a sound and efficient financial system.

Dr Kioa brings with him a wealth of more than 31 years of experience. Prior to joining the National

Reserve Bank of Tonga as Governor, Dr Kioa has served as a Board Director for the National Reserve Bank of Tonga and Ports Authority of Tonga. He is the owner and the Principal Consultant for Kioa

Consults, Dr Kioa has more than 10 years of consultancy experience, mostly with the Australian Government (AusAID).

During his 7 years as the Tonga’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom from 2006 to 2012, Dr Kioa was the Chairman for the Board of Governors of the Commonwealth Secretariat, Tonga’s Representative to the World Trade Organisation and the Ambassador to the European Union. Dr Kioa’s international experience also includes being an Assistant to the Executive Director of the International Monetary Fund from 1999 to 2001. Within the Government Civil Service, Dr Kioa held senior positions including more than three years as Deputy Secretary for Finance, Statistician at the Statistics Department, Project Economist and Deputy Director for the Central Planning Department. In the private Sector, Dr Kioa was once the President for the Tonga Chamber of Commerce whilst being the CEO for the Leiola Group Ltd from 2002 to 2005.

Dr Kioa has a Doctor of Philosophy in Macroeconomics, a Master of Economics and a Graduate Diploma from the Australian National University in Australia. He also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Economics from the University of the South Pacific.

New Zealand policeman Kali Fungavaka's headstone unveiled

By
Kalino Latu
-

Family and friends gathered today at the Mangere Cemetery  to unveil Kali Fungavaka’s headstone. He died in Tonga on August 23, 2012.

Six accused are on trial following Fungavaka’s death. They were charged for allegedly killing Fungavaka while he was in police custody.

Twelve months have passed since the fatal incident that ended their beloved one,  the family are still struggling to come to terms with his death.

“We love you Kali,” a family member said in a tearful speech he delivered during the unveiling service.

Today they have marked his grave with a black granite headstone that features his image and the words “In loving memory of Kali Fungavaka”.

Just below his image is an inscription: “Forever loved husband and soulmate of Audra, Son of Rosemary and Tavake, Beloved father of Shiloah, Jalen, Bailee, Mason and Dallin, Step father of Charvez and brother of David, Miriam and Bishop.  Sadly missed by all your friends & Family”.

Mangere Police force were represented in the ceremony by Fungavaka’s colleagues and a speech made by Mangere Constable Lance Mulu tells about how he remembered Fungavaka as a friend and co-worker.

‘ The first thing I think about is his family and I think about his kids as we always talk about kids so much as Kali was proud of his children. He loves each and everyone of them,” Mulu said.

“Just one thing that I always remember about Kali. He is one of the funniest guy I have ever been around. He has such an awesome sense of humour. Because we were about the same age we were able to relate to the same old songs from the 80s,  the 90s.”

Mr Fungavaka was in Tonga attending his grandfather’s funeral. On August 17 he was arrested for minor drunkenness and taken to a police station in Nuku’alofa.

While in police custody he  suffered severe head injuries. A week later he died in hospital. His  family have recently sued the Tongan government seeking compensation, redress and  an apology.

 

AUD$1.5 million real estate purchase splits Brisbane Tonga Houʻeiki Church

By
Kalino Latu
-

Seven pastors of the Tonga Houʻeiki Church in Brisbane declared they are no longer under the control of the Church’s head office in Tonga in a protest against a resolution passed by the church conference to purchase real estate worth AUDS$1.5 million.

The property is located at 25-33 Innes Street, Geebung, Brisbane according to information given to Kaniva News. It says the property contains five lots which belong to the Geebung Baptist Church.

The seven pastors are Rev Kiu Makitoa, Rev Sione Faiva , Rev Kelepi Uele, Rev Pita Pua Likiliki, Rev Taniela Ma’u Moala, Rev Paula Militoni, Leiufisa Kengike and Rev Peni Mailaiu.

They claimed that the Brisbane church will sell its two properties to help the purchase and a church’s property in Sydney will be held as security for the loan.

The pastors fear that the loan would put the small number of church members in Brisbane into financial difficulties and that they could not afford to pay off the loan.

They mentioned the Sydney based Tongan Free Wesleyan Church’s property known as  Pulela’a which was liquidated this year because the church struggled to pay off its loan of more than AUD$20 million.

However the president of the Church, Dr Tu’ipulotu Katoanga  told local newspapers the church has already secured $800,000 for the purchase. He made it clear that the purchase of the Innes Street  property is one of the church’s investment projects.

He added that the money for the purchase will be donated by the Tonga, New Zealand and the United States dioceses.

Dr Katoanga said they had done this sort of investment in the past to one of their churches in New Zealand and it was successful.

The Brisbane  investment project has been assessed by the church on a number of criteria before it returned to the church conference for approval this year, the president told local media.

The owner of the new property will be the Tonga Hou’eiki Church and not the Tonga Hou’eiki Brisbane church, the president said. It means the church is confident with the project as its financial matters will be looked after by the church head office in Tonga and not the Brisbane based Tonga Hou’eiki Church.

Dr Katoanga also said the church was aware of those who had defected and there is a plan to have a talanoa or talk with them.

The talanoa could be about whether they want to establish a church of their own, but still work together with the Tonga Hou’eiki in Brisbane, or whether they wish to permanently defect and establish their own church.

The pastors who were defected from the church
The pastors who were defected from the church

Breaking: David Shearer Resigns As Labour Leader

By
Kalino Latu
-

David Shearer has announced that he will resign as Leader of the Labour Party saying he is “ no longer have the full confidence of many of my caucus colleagues,”

The resignation will take effect when a new leader was decided. A process for this would begin within 48 hours and was expected to be completed in three weeks.

He told the press conference it was better for him to step down so there could be a “clean change to a new leader who can take Labour through to victory in 2014”.

Shearer said that he was not challenged for the leadership role. He will stay on in Parliament as the MP for Mount Albert.

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