Sixteen contestants, vying for the Miss Heilala 2018 crown, made their first public appearance on June 27, at Tanoa International Dateline Hotel in Nuku'alofa.

The contestants from abroad and locally were radiant during an orientation program held ahead of judging events, which starts on July 2 and ends with the crowning on July 6.

The reigning Miss Heilala is Ophelia Kava.

Contestants

1. Miss Langakali ‘o e Vai ko Puna, Primrose Malekamu

2. Miss Villa Ishadora, Mele Lupe Vete

3. Miss Tuitui Fashion, Cecilia Viliamu

4. Miss Brilliant Star, Naomi Fotofili

5. Miss Apraxus NZ 2018, Lilieta Fisi’ihoi

6. Miss Apraxus Tonga NZ, Kalo Funganitao

7. Miss Bou’s Fashion, Luana Fifita

8. Miss S&S USA Store, ‘Ailini Vakalahi

9. Miss Ha’apai, Ivon Tohi

10. Miss Fangailupe Tonga Australia, Luseane ‘Akau’ola

11. Miss ‘Eua 2018, Mo’ui Fo’ou Tahifote

12. Miss Lady Maria Australia, ‘Olita Tu’ipulotu

13. Miss Ha’ano, Manu Ma’ake

14. Miss Tonga Tourism, Ane ‘Ofa Pulu

15. Miss Havelu Rugby, Tenisia Fau'ese

16. Miss Whale Watching, Sia Tu’ipulotu