TONGA PREPARES FOR CORONATION

The coronation of the King of Tonga, George Tupou V from 30 July to 3 August,will be an occasion the locals will remember for years to come with a series of extravagant events involving world acclaimed celebrities and personalities.


There are three coronation balls, a military parade, an unpredented traditional dance event, a giant fireworks display, open air concert and a marquee rugby match featuring the some of the best players in the world.

For rugby fans, the rugby match on 31 July will feature a Tonga XV versus a World XV made up of big name players from England, Scotland, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

Jonah Lomu is among the stars name for the World XV which will also include Jonny Wilkinson, George Gregan, Stephen Larkham, Toutai Kefu, Matthew Burke, Lesley Vainikolo, Rupeni Caucaunibuca, AJ Venter,former All Blacks Carl Hoeft, Chresten Davis, Mark Mayerhofler, Tony Brown, Ron Cribb, former Manu Samoa Brian Lima, Trevor Leota and current Samoan internationals Semo Sititi and Mo Schwalger.

And if that wasn't enough - there will be a half time touch game will featuring Vaaiga Tuigamala, Michael Jones, Willie Ofahenguae, Mike Umaga, Matthew Ridge, Marc Ellis and Waisale Serevi.

The Event
Coronation Ceremony at the Centenary Church - this ceremony reflects the Christian nature of the Kingdom of Tonga whereby the Coronation Ceremony will be held at the Centenary Church in Nuku'alofa on Friday 1st of August 2008.

The Taumafa Kava or the Traditional Installation Ceremony of Kings will be held on Wednesday 30th July 2008. This Ceremony is steeped in Tongan culture since the inception of the Kingdom of Tonga. Royal Charity Concert - His Majesty has designated for all proceeds from any commercialisation of the Coronation to be donated to a Charity established specifically to address health research for diabetes in particular and other life style diseases in general.

If you would like more information go to Tongan King Coronation.