Baron Fielakepa (centre) at the closing of the Tonga Legislative Assembly, Nuku'alofa, 30 September, 2010

Baron Fielakepa (51) passed away early yesterday morning Sunday 10 February 2013, at an Auckland hospital.

His younger brother Tongapo'uli Aleamotu'a confirmed this morning, that they had received the news of his passing early yesterday morning.

He said the noble had remained in New Zealand since January last year with an illness. He last visited Tonga in May 2012 to attend Havelu's fakame, but only for a few days before returning.

"The date of the funeral has not been confirmed at this stage. We have just returned from informing HM Queen Nanasipau'u, and we wait on HM King Tupou VI's instructions on the funeral arrangements as he is in 'Eua," he said.

Meanwhile, it is understood immediate members of his family have travelled to Auckland today.

Baron Fielakepa was the eldest son of the late Noble Fielakepa and Lady Tuna Fielakepa.

He was a former Private Secretary to the King, Governor of Ha'apai, Minister for Lands and Lord Chamberlain, a Law Lord, and was also the chairman of the Royal Lands Commission.