King Tupou VI opens the Royal Agricultural Show, Ha‘apai. 14 August, 2013.

King Tupou VI opened Tonga’s fourth Royal Agricultural Show in Pangai, Ha’apai, on Wednesday, August 14, where an abundance of local food and products was displayed.

The one-day show was an opportunity for farmers, fishermen and those who make handicrafts to showcase traditional Tongan food crops, handmade handicrafts, fish and seafood at the Lea'aetohi Grounds.

Tonga’s Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Samiu Vaipulu, told Matangi Tonga that food security was demonstrated here, since there was an abundance of local food available ranging from vegetables to fish and seafood.

“The people were also happy to meet the king and from my personal view as a member of government I think we should continue the shows annually in all of the islands. People are doing it and not only is the show a motivation for growers but it gives people the energy to work for more,” he said.

The King accompanied by Queen Nanasipau’u viewed the displays with the Prime Minister Lord Tu’ivakano, Hon. Vaipulu and Hon. Sangster Saulala the Minister for Agriculture, Food, Forests and Fisheries, among other guests.

King Tupou VI will open the ‘Eua Agricultural show on Saturday, August 17 before returning to Nuku’alofa to open the Tongatapu show next week on August 23-24.