The funeral of Tavake Fungavaka’ was held this afternoon Friday, May 9 at Fua’amotu in Tongatapu.

Tavake died on May 3, while in Tonga attending the trial into the death of his son Kali Fungavaka.

Tonga’s Police Commissioner Grant O’Fee and George Fanamanu a New Zealand Police Advisor attended the funeral service held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

The service was attended by many family and friends.

Tavake, who lived in the United States, had arrived in Tonga in March for his aunt’s funeral. He stayed on to attend the trial that began on April 8, before he fell ill and died at Vaiola Hospital, a family member confirmed earlier this week. Tavake's second wife, Kalisi came to Tonga for the funeral.

Meanwhile, at the Nuku'alofa Supreme Court the trial of the five policemen accused of manslaughter in Kali's death is to continue next week with closing submissions from counsel. A second trial for a civlian accused is expected to follow next.

Kali, a New Zealand Police officer who was fatally injured while in police custody died at Vaiola Hospital on August 23, 2012.