King rides in Queen Salote's car in coronation procession

King rides in Queen Salote's car in coronation procession [1]

Nuku'alofa, Tonga

Friday, August 1, 2008 - 15:00. Updated on Sunday, April 13, 2014 - 23:01.

Photos by Linny Folau and Pesi Fonua

HM King George Tupou V of Tonga.

A Humber Super Snipe coupe, was owned by Queen Salote.

The king's procession through central Nuku'alofa.

Following his hour-long coronation service in the Centenary Church, HM King George Tupou V riding in an open car, was driven through the streets of central Nuku'alofa and down Hala Taufa'ahau. The black Humber Snipe Coupe was once owned by his grandmother Queen Salote.

Bells rang and there was a gun salute.

Schools brass bands joined the processions and school children organised by the Ministry of Education lined the route waving Tongan flags.

Queen Salote College students line the route from the Royal Palace to the Centenary Church.

Visitors to the coronation including the representatives of heads of state from Pacific and other countries attended a royal luncheon for 1,000 at the Royal Palace following the coronation.

School students lined the route of the king's procession.

Guests at the coronation walk to a royal luncheon at the Palace, hoste be the Prime Minister.

Official guests included representatives of the governments and heads of state and royalty of Pacific and other countries.

Ngongo Kioa, Tonga's representative in the United Kingdom.

Top hats and tails, long gowns for the luncheon at the Royal Palace.

Lord Taniela Tufui (right) and in a courtier outfit with hat, David Dunkley of Shoreline.

School bands.

School students carry Tongan flags.