Photos by Linny Folau and Patricia Car

Wearing beautiful traditional costumes, the 10 contestants for the 2009-10 Miss Heilala Pageant appeared in a Tau'olunga dance competition on Tuesday July 28 at the Heilala Village.

After each contestant performed their own interpretation of a Tonga song of their choice, the top five dancers were announced as: Miss Leiola Duty Free, Miss Appraxus Immigration New Zealand, Miss Liahona Prep, Miss Tonga China Association and Miss Tonga Visitors Bureau.

A special award for the Best Tau'olunga Costume went to Miss Tonga Tourism USA, Pauline Koloa.

The Miss Heilala Pageant continues on Thursday July 30 with the final judging events of Sarong wear, Talent and Contemporary Island Creation.

The crowning of the new Miss Heilala will be held on Friday July 31 in a Heilala Festival Ball at the Queen Salote Memorial Hall.