King rides in Queen Salote's car in coronation procession [1]
Friday, August 1, 2008 - 15:00. Updated on Sunday, April 13, 2014 - 23:01.
Photos by Linny Folau and Pesi Fonua
Following his hour-long coronation service in the Centenary Church, HM King George Tupou V riding in an open car, was driven through the streets of central Nuku'alofa and down Hala Taufa'ahau. The black Humber Snipe Coupe was once owned by his grandmother Queen Salote.
Bells rang and there was a gun salute.
Schools brass bands joined the processions and school children organised by the Ministry of Education lined the route waving Tongan flags.
Visitors to the coronation including the representatives of heads of state from Pacific and other countries attended a royal luncheon for 1,000 at the Royal Palace following the coronation.