By Katalina Siasau and Tupou Vaipulu Jr.

Miss Heilala contestants showcased bright and colourful sarongs in the sarong wear competition last night, 2 July, held at the Tonga High Stadium in Nuku’alofa. The top three contestants in this category will be announced on the finale night, Friday, 4 July.

• Miss Lady Maria Australia, Ana-Li Pisa Li wore a sarong with colours of the sky and ocean.
• Miss Pangaimotu Island, Siosi’ana Taumoepeau wore a sarong with colours of the ocean.
• Miss Tongatapu 2, Fugaau Elizabeth Amanaki Mafi's sarong was the colour of deep blue moana, adorned with ocean creatures.
• Miss Ha’apai Masani, Ati Liliani ‘Olie wore a bright orange sarong with a traditional kupesi design, reflecting the colors of a Ha’apai sunset.
• Miss S&S USA, Sinivia Tu’avao modeled a vibrant tropical sarong featuring large hibiscus and plumeria flowers.
• Miss Current of Love Charity Vava’u, Talita Fainga’a's sarong was a vibrant pink with a white print.
• Miss Tika Way Creations, Malia Toatepi Tonga’uiha wore an ocean blue sarong with a design of the famous Blowholes in Tongatapu.

The judging panel for the competition included Co-Director of Suliana Dance Academy and singer, Miss Finau Afeaki; Miss Heilala 1986, Kerry Cowley Mataele; the reigning Miss Pacific Islands, Litara Ieremia-Allan, World Bank Country Officer, Natalia Palu Latu; and Cultural Artist and Carver, Sitiveni Fehoko.

The winner of the best sarong will receive $500 pa'anga, the first runner-up will receive $350, and the second runner-up will receive $200.