Nuku'alofa, Tonga
Miss Heilala Pageant, Sarong competition, from left, Miss Tongatapu 2, Fugaau Elizabeth Amanaki Mafi; Miss Ha’apai Masani, Ati Liliani ‘Olie; Miss S&S USA, Sinivia Tu’avao; Miss Pangaimotu Island, Siosi’ana Taumoepeau; Miss Lady Maria Australia, Anna-Li Pisa Tanuvasa Chou-Lee; Miss Current of Love Charity Vava’u, Talita Fainga’a; and Miss Tika Way Creations, Malia Toatepi Tonga’uiha. Nuku'alofa. 2 July 2025. Photo: Matangi Tonga.
By Katalina Siasau and Tupou Vaipulu Jr.
Miss Heilala contestants showcased bright and colourful sarongs in the sarong wear competition last night, 2 July, held at the Tonga High Stadium in Nuku’alofa. The top three contestants in this category will be announced on the finale night, Friday, 4 July.
- Miss Lady Maria Australia, Ana-Li Pisa Li wore a sarong with colours of the sky and ocean.
- Miss Pangaimotu Island, Siosi’ana Taumoepeau wore a sarong with colours of the ocean.
- Miss Tongatapu 2, Fugaau Elizabeth Amanaki Mafi's sarong was the colour of deep blue moana, adorned with ocean creatures.
- Miss Ha’apai Masani, Ati Liliani ‘Olie wore a bright orange sarong with a traditional kupesi design, reflecting the colors of a Ha’apai sunset.
- Miss S&S USA, Sinivia Tu’avao modeled a vibrant tropical sarong featuring large hibiscus and plumeria flowers.
- Miss Current of Love Charity Vava’u, Talita Fainga’a's sarong was a vibrant pink with a white print.
- Miss Tika Way Creations, Malia Toatepi Tonga’uiha wore an ocean blue sarong with a design of the famous Blowholes in Tongatapu.
The judging panel for the competition included Co-Director of Suliana Dance Academy and singer, Miss Finau Afeaki; Miss Heilala 1986, Kerry Cowley Mataele; the reigning Miss Pacific Islands, Litara Ieremia-Allan, World Bank Country Officer, Natalia Palu Latu; and Cultural Artist and Carver, Sitiveni Fehoko.
The winner of the best sarong will receive $500 pa'anga, the first runner-up will receive $350, and the second runner-up will receive $200.
