Nuku'alofa, Tonga
MMT captain and co-captain, Addin Fonua-Blake and Jason Taumalolo greet the King. Nuku'alofa, Tonga. 17 October 2025. Photo: Matangi Tonga.
By Katalina Siasau
HM King Tupou VI welcomed Mate Ma'a Tonga to the Royal Palace on 17 October, granting an audience, ahead of their match against Toa Samoa on Sunday, 26 October at Suncorp Stadium, in Brisbane Australia.
During the audience, the King in jest, told the team, "Don't take advice from me because I didn't play rugby."
Following the audience, the team had lunch on the Palace grounds, where they were joined by members of the Royal Family and nobles.
HRH Princess Latufuipeka served food to the team.
HM King Tupou VI (centre) pictured with the Mate Ma'a Tonga team and officials at Palace grounds. Nuku'alofa, Tonga. 17 October 2025. Photo: Matangi Tonga.
HRH Princess Lātūfuipeka helping to serve food for the MMT team. Nuku'alofa, Tonga. 17 October 2025. Photo: Matangi Tonga.
