The Aoniu Rugby Tournament kicked off at the Teufaiva Stadium today bringing together 12 teams from the main districts of Tongatapu and the outer islands.

The Tonga Rugby Union office at Havelu confirmed this morning, the tournament will have its semi finals on February 20 with the final on February 23.

There will be eight teams competing from the districts of Kolofo'ou, Havelu, Kolovai, Ma'ufanga, Hahake, Hihifo, Vahe Loto and Vahe Kauvai.

There will also be three teams from Vava'u, Ha'apai and 'Eua, and the Under-20 team.

The TRU office confirmed that the Aoniu tournament is essential for local players because the best will be picked for the Tautahi and Tau'uta national teams that will represent Tonga in the upcoming Pacific Cup.

The Pacific Cup will run from April 18 to May 24, consisting of six teams, two each from Fiji, Samoa and Tonga.

There will be no money prizes for the Aoniu but the TRU will assist with weekly expenses of teams while on training and during the tournament.

The opening game this afternoon was between Kolomotu'a and Ma'ufanga, and other games will be held at the weekends.