Results for Royalty & Nobility

The coronation of Tonga's King George Tupou V has been postponed for 12 months, following the destruction of central Nuku'alofa by riot and fires on November 16.

Tonga's King George Tupou V will be crowned on August 1, 2007, an announcement from the Tonga Government confirmed today.

Let me ride on the crest of that insurmountable wave that Dr '‘Epeli Hau'ofa generated in his reflection: His Majesty King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV: An Appreciation. I too, want to express my appreciation of our late noble and gracious King.

The passing of ten nights after the burial of Tonga's late King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV was marked this morning with a funeral ceremony called the Pongipongi Tapu, or sacred morning, at Pangai Lahi, with a traditionally massive presentation of food. Photos by Pesi Fonua, Linny Folau, and Adrienne L. Kaeppler.

HRH Prince 'Ulukalala Lavaka Ata (47), this afternoon surrendered two of his noble titles, 'Ulukalala and Ata, to become the new Crown Prince and the heir to the Tongan throne, taking up the noble title Tupouto'a.

Thousands of people are presenting funeral gifts and paying their final tributes to the late King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV at the Royal Palace, Nuku‘alofa, although they cannot view him while he is lying in state in the throne room.

The West and its Western media need to be educated on some aspects of Tongan culture so they can be enlightened regarding our rituals and the relationship of Tongans with their beloved King. It is rude and highly inappropriate that during our time of mourning, offensive articles and news by some Western newspapers, radio personalities and television are mocking the late King and His Majesty Tupou V. - Loketi Niua Latu

HM Queen Halaevalu Mata‘aho received funeral presentations from her grandchildren, the children of the late Lord Ma‘atu and Lady Alaileula Tuku‘aho, yesterday at the Royal Palace. Photos by Peter Poulsen

Thousands of Tongans are lining the roads on Tongatapu as the funeral procession of His Late Majesty King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV passes by on its way to the Royal Palace where he will lie in State for five days.