CHRISTMAS came early for one happy six-year-old girl Kaufo'ou Finau Tonga whose wish to fly in an aeroplane came true on Saturday, December 11.

Kaufo'ou and her mother 'Akata Tonga of Kolomotu'a received two return tickets to Ha'apai donated by Tonga's domestic carrier Chathams Pacific under Tonga's "Make a Wish" Program launched in October.

The program is a partnership between the Child Cancer Foundation of Tonga CCFT and Make a Wish New Zealand.

In October Kaufo'ou, who suffers from a heart defect was one of five children whose wishes were granted. Four other children who suffer from cancer received their wishes for flat screen televisions and video games.

It was a happy day for the little girl, who also received a Barbie doll and clothes and NZD$700 pocket money from Make a Wish New Zealand.

CCFT President Moala Sisifa and members Silia Tupou and Vika Taufa were also present to bid Kaufo'ou farewell on her first aeroplane ride to Ha'apai.