A new LPG refilling station owned by Tonga Gas Ltd. and Homegas Ltd., was opened today at Mataki'eua to provide better accessibility to customers who live in the rural villages of Tongatapu.

Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala accompanied by Crown Princess Sinaitakala opened the station, built at a cost of  $500,000.

The Minister for Public Enterprises, Hon Poasi Tei, said this development is the second LPG terminal for Tongatapu, in addition to the station at Touliki in Ma'ufanga.

He said with a capacity to hold six tonnes, the station would improve gas supply on Tongatapu, particularly for the people from rural villages like Niutoua, Fua’amotu and Ha’atafu who previously had to travel all the way to Touliki to refill their gas bottles, he said.

"This terminal is strategically located to provide better accessibility to customers and to bring LPG core services closer to our people."

Tonga Gas Ltd. which supplies gas and the gas distributor, Home Gas Ltd. are owned by Tonga Power Ltd.

Attending the event were the Speaker of Parliament Lord Tu’ivakano, CEO of Tonga Power Ltd. Robert Matthews, Carl Sanft, Malakai Sika Chairman of Tonga Gas/Homegas Board and guests.