Photos by Katalina Siasau

Tanaki Helu won the Best Chef of the Year contest, when he wowed judges with his main course, a honey glazed fish dish, during the second day of the Heilala Festival, in Nuku'alofa on 27 June.

Tanaki won a cash prize of $1000 pa’anga. He showed his vegetable carving skills in the second round of the competition, hosted by Tonga Tourism under a theme: Seafood. The judging event was held at the Builders Burger cafe, at the swimming pool at Touliki, Ma’ufanga.

The four contestants were passionate to show off their skills and cooking styles. They brought their own choice of ingredients for their dish, which was judged on skills, presentation, hygiene, and other criteria.

There were two rounds of competition. The first was preparing a fish main course and the second was fruits or vegetable carving. The contestants also spoke about their culinary creations.

First runner up ‘Elaiakimi Kolomalu brought tears to the audience as he shared how his son who passed away, had inspired his cooking. He won a cash prize of $800 for his butter curry fish with mushroom dish.

The second-runner up was awarded to Nina Koso of ‘Ahopanilolo Technical Institute, with a cash prize of $600. She made three dishes from tuna: 'ota shot (raw fish shot), coconut coated tuna, and cured tuna dish.

The panel of judges were Tuituiohu Mafi (Catering Infrastructure, Maritime School), Soane Fakatava (Head Chef, Seaview Lodge), Feliuaki Taulanga (Owner, Venue Superb Event Planner & Nia’s Kitchen), and Magdalena Fifita (Director IED).