AGP Executive Report

Pacific Film Buzz: Naoero (Nauru) has gone viral with its first feature film, Far End of the Sea, now topping 820,000 YouTube views, spotlighting island history, culture and landscape through a 1842 drama starring local actor Cramer Cain. Tongan Language in Daily Life: TUSI has released a new Tongan bilingual diary, Palani Faka’aho, aiming to help families write down and keep Lea Faka-Tonga alive, with a push that’s also showing up in music and classrooms. Documentary Spotlight: The Jonah Lomu documentary Lomu is out now, with co-director Vea Mafile’o saying she learned he was a fluent Tongan speaker—an insight meant to surprise even Tongans. Rugby League & Tonga Connections: Tyson Frizell is linked with the Wests Tigers, with eligibility that could see him in the Tongan squad for the RL World Cup, while Payne Haas faces finger surgery and says Samoa selection isn’t guaranteed until he’s fit. Sports Culture in Tonga: Wycliff Palu is bringing rugby back to Tonga with a First Nations and Pasifika match against Tonga President’s XV, framed as more than a one-off “promotion,” backed by PacificAus Sports funding. WWE Entertainment: Sami Zayn’s title-shot chaos continues on SmackDown, setting up more Mexico City drama as CM Punk retains the Undisputed WWE Championship.

NRL Spotlight: Tongan-heritage Rabbitohs forward Keaon Koloamatangi was at the centre of a fiery clash with Roosters prop Spencer Leniu during South Sydney’s 50–20 win, after Leniu repeatedly refused to play the ball and was penalised—sparking criticism from commentators and leading to Leniu’s early exit. Tongan Language & Culture: Pacific stationery brand TUSI has released a new Tongan bilingual diary, Palani Faka’aho, aimed at helping families write down daily life, goals and greetings as part of the push to keep Lea Faka-Tonga strong. Film & Rugby Legacy: The documentary LOMU—co-directed by Vea Mafile’o—continues to draw attention ahead of its release, with Mafile’o highlighting Jonah Lomu’s fluent Tongan and the patience she learned from co-director Gavin Fitzgerald. Pacific Sports Growth: Wallabies great Wycliff Palu is in Tonga to coach First Nations and Pasifika against Tonga President’s XV, part of wider efforts to deepen rugby ties across the Pacific. US-Pacific Arts & Entertainment Backdrop: The US announced over $150m for Pacific projects at the Pacific Islands Forum, including support for connectivity and community-focused initiatives.

Tongan language, on the page and in the classroom: Noeleen Tuala’s Pacific stationery brand TUSI has released a new Tongan bilingual diary, Palani Faka’aho, built around lotu, hiva, greetings and phrases—an easy way for families to keep writing and recording Tongan life. Jonah Lomu documentary buzz: LOMU co-director Vea Mafile’o says she learned Jonah was a fluent Tongan speaker, and credits patience from co-director Gavin Fitzgerald; reviews also highlight how the film captures Lomu’s global impact beyond the highlights. Arts in motion: A student writer shares her flamenco journey, from learning castanets and footwork to performing at the Dr Phillips Center—framing dance as cultural expression and personal freedom. Rugby in the Pacific spotlight: Wallabies great Wycliff Palu returns to Tonga to coach First Nations and Pasifika against Tonga President’s XV, with the Kaume’a Ofi Trophy aimed at strengthening rugby ties and youth pathways. Pacific funding push: The US announces over US$150m for Pacific projects, including fuel storage and port upgrades—while Tonga is set to receive feasibility studies for fuel storage and data.

Tongan language in everyday life: Noeleen Tuala’s Pacific stationery brand TUSI has released a new Tongan bilingual diary, Palani Faka’aho, designed to help families keep up Lea Faka-Tonga through phrases, greetings, artwork and prompts. Rugby in the Pacific spotlight: Wallabies great Wycliff Palu is in Tonga to coach First Nations and Pasifika against Tonga President’s XV in Nuku’alofa, with the Kaume’a Ofi Trophy streamed on Stan Sport—part of a wider push to keep rugby rooted in Pacific communities. NRL World Cup fitness watch: Brisbane prop Payne Haas faces finger surgery and says Samoa selection isn’t guaranteed for the Oct 15 Rugby League World Cup. All Blacks vs Springboks: The All Blacks head into the third Test in Johannesburg with rankings and rivalry bragging rights on the line. Music & culture crossover: A Tanzanian music feature highlights how the Sindimba dance beat shows up in Gloria Estefan’s Mi Tierra, linking local dance styles to global pop history.

Tongan language in everyday life: Pacific stationery brand TUSI has launched a new Tongan bilingual diary, Palani Faka’aho, aiming to help families keep writing and recording in Lea Faka-Tonga, with plans to expand into other Pacific languages. Rugby league World Cup nerves: Brisbane prop Payne Haas says Samoa selection isn’t guaranteed as he heads for surgery next week to straighten two finger bones, with fitness the deciding factor ahead of the Oct 15 tournament. Tonga on the rugby map: Wallabies great Wycliff Palu is in Nuku’alofa to coach First Nations and Pasifika against Tonga President’s XV in the Kaume’a Ofi Trophy, backed by PacificAus Sports funding and a wider push to grow rugby in Tonga and neighbours. Pacific ties get a big boost: The US announced over US$150m for Pacific projects at the Pacific Islands Forum, including fuel storage and port upgrades—feasibility work for Tonga’s fuel storage and data needs included. World Cup squad eligibility drama (Fiji): Fiji confirmed a 40-man RLWC squad, with the Fainu brothers’ Tonga/NZ eligibility and document hurdles still shaping who can represent Fiji. Rugby documentary spotlight: LOMU, a new Jonah Lomu documentary by Vea Mafile’o and Gavin Fitzgerald, is released nationwide, digging into Lomu’s Tongan identity and life beyond the legend.

Rugby & Pacific pathways: Wallabies great Wycliff Palu is in Tonga to coach First Nations and Pasifika against Tonga President’s XV in Nuku’alofa on Friday, competing for the Kaume’a Ofi Trophy—an effort backed by Australia’s PacificAus Sports to keep rugby growing in the Pacific. Tongan language in everyday life: TUSI has released a new Tongan bilingual diary, Palani Faka’aho, giving families a place to write down lotu, hiva, phrases and greetings, with hopes it strengthens Lea Faka-Tonga. Rugby league roster churn: St George Illawarra Dragons have confirmed the departure of Tongan international Hame Sele as they continue a major 2027 rebuild. Sports funding & preparation: Tonga’s Ministry of Internal Affairs has opened applications for 2026–27 sports grants, aimed at boosting local participation and wellbeing as Tonga looks ahead to the 2031 Pacific Games. Film spotlight: The Jonah Lomu documentary LOMU is rolling out nationwide, with coverage highlighting the nuanced, Kiwi-Tongan story behind rugby’s first global superstar.

Rugby & Pacific ties: Tonga’s rugby scene gets a boost with Wycliff Palu coaching a First Nations and Pasifika side against Tonga President’s XV in Nuku’alofa for the Kaume’a Ofi Trophy, streamed on Stan Sport, backed by PacificAus Sports and a wider push to grow rugby in Tonga, Samoa, Fiji and PNG. US-Pacific investment: The United States pledges over US$150m at the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau, including US$60m for fuel security, US$17m for tackling illegal fishing, and US$50m for upgrading Penrhyn port in the Cook Islands. NRL World Cup buzz: Christchurch’s Rugby League World Cup double-header is edging toward a sell-out at the new ONE NZ Stadium, strengthening the city’s bid for an NRL 20th team. Tongan arts & identity on screen: Vea Mafile’o’s documentary LOMU spotlights Jonah Lomu’s life beyond the legend, using archive footage and family material ahead of its nationwide release. Sports pathways: Chef de Mission Michelle Paiti returns from an OSEP course in Fiji, helping Tonga and other Pacific nations plan athlete-centred delegations toward LA28 and beyond. Local community politics: Te Whatanui Leka Taumalolo Skipwith is selected by the Greens to contest Ōtāhuhu, bringing Tongan heritage and community wellbeing experience to the 2026 election. Sports funding in Tonga: Applications open for Tonga’s 2026–27 sports grants, supporting clubs, schools and communities as questions linger over future levy funding.

Pacific diplomacy & business: Serbia’s Tatjana Macura says EXPO 2027 Belgrade is opening doors for new Pacific partnerships, including talks with Tonga’s PM and foreign minister. Pacific governance: Leaders at the 55th Pacific Islands Forum in Palau urged ratification of the EU’s Samoa Agreement, aiming to strengthen long-term political, economic and social cooperation. Tonga sport & training: Chef de Mission Michelle Paiti returned from an OSEP course in Fiji, bringing fresh tools for athlete-centred delegation planning for LA28 and upcoming Pacific events. Tonga arts & youth: South Island’s Māfana project is giving rangatahi a Pacific stage through dance, music and storytelling, including Tongan ta’olunga and original music. Tonga skills & work: Tonga’s Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala launched the kingdom’s first National Apprenticeship Policy, expanding placements from tourism and fashion into wider sectors like construction. Tonga in the spotlight: Taekwondo athlete Hamish Chimanlal won gold at the Kimunyong Cup in South Korea, carrying the Tongan flag and eyeing future Pacific Games selection.

Pacific Governance: A new “Perspectives on Pacific Resilience” series argues democratic partnerships can help small island states deliver accountable rule across huge oceans, with priorities including digital security, maritime law enforcement and resilience governance. Tonga Sports Pathways: Tonga’s Olympic prep gets a boost via CISNOC Chef de Mission Michelle Paiti’s OSEP course in Nadi, bringing athlete-centred delegation planning insights from mentors across Tonga, Samoa, Fiji and more. World Rugby Nations Cup (Tonga fixtures): World Rugby confirms November Nations Cup Tests, with Tonga set to open in Bucharest on 6 Nov and again on 14 Nov (Georgia v Tonga), plus further round matches later in the month. Tongan Taekwondo Win: Nuku’alofa-born athlete Hamish Chimanlal strikes gold at the Kimunyong Cup in South Korea, carrying Tonga’s flag and eyeing more international competition. Arts & Youth: South Island’s Māfana show gives rangatahi a Pacific stage through dance, music and storytelling, including Tongan ta‘olunga and original choreography. Sports Funding Watch: Tonga’s sports grants are open for 2026–27, as questions linger around sports levy funding and 2031 Pacific Games preparations.

World Rugby Nations Cup: November fixtures are locked in, with Tonga set to open against Romania in Bucharest on 6 Nov, then meet Georgia in round two and face Hong Kong China in the final round. Pacific sport funding: Australia has pledged $15.6m over four years to boost Pacific athletes and officials toward Tahiti 2027, LA 2028 and Rarotonga 2029, delivered via Olympic and regional partners. Tonga in the spotlight (arts & sport): Tonga launched its first National Apprenticeship Policy, expanding placements into cookery, accommodation services, fashion design and hairdressing. Tongan talent abroad: Taekwondo athlete Hamish Chimanlal won gold at the 2026 Kimunyong Cup in South Korea, and is now aiming for more international competition. Community & culture: South Auckland’s Ōtara talent is set to shine at a free music festival, while South Island rangatahi are building Pacific identity through the Māfana dance-and-music showcase. Local politics with Pacific roots: Tongan heritage candidate Te Whatanui Leka Taumalolo Skipwith has been selected to contest Ōtāhuhu for the Greens.

Tonga sports talent in the spotlight: Nuku’alofa-born taekwondo athlete Hamish Chimanlal won gold at the 2026 Kimunyong Cup in South Korea, flying the Tongan flag and now aiming at more international events, possibly the Tahiti Pacific Games. Local pathways for young people: Tonga’s Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala has launched the kingdom’s first National Apprenticeship Policy, expanding training from tourism and hospitality into areas like fashion design and hairdressing, with construction next. Arts & culture across the Pacific: In New Zealand, Māfana helped 65 South Island Pasifika rangatahi find their voices through dance, music and storytelling, including Tongan ta’olunga and original music. Regional sport diplomacy: Australia pledged $15.6m to support Pacific athletes and officials heading toward Brisbane 2032 and other major events. Pacific heritage in sport: Fiji’s Torika Boseiwaqa earned her first national call-up for the Fiji Mini Kulas at the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship.

Tonga Apprenticeships: Tonga’s Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala has launched the kingdom’s first National Apprenticeship Policy (2026–2030), building on a 2024 pilot that already placed 36 apprentices with 19 employers across cookery, accommodation services, fashion design and hairdressing, with construction next. Pacific Sport Funding: Australia’s PM Anthony Albanese announced $15.6 million over four years to help Pacific athletes and officials reach Brisbane 2032 Olympics and Paralympics, with support also for major Games ahead. Tongan Taekwondo Win: Nuku’alofa-born athlete Hamish Chimanlal struck gold at South Korea’s 2026 Kimunyong Cup, winning Senior Male 2 Knife-Hand Breaking and aiming for more international competition. Arts & Youth in the Region: South Island rangatahi are finding a Pacific voice through the Māfana show, a 15-week project using dance and music to strengthen cultural identity across Tonga, Samoa, Cook Islands and more. Rugby League World Cup Guide: A full breakdown of the 2026 RLWC draw and where to watch includes Tonga in the men’s tournament and multiple Pacific women’s teams.

Pacific youth arts: South Island rangatahi are finding a Pacific voice through Fua Creative’s 15-week Māfana show, built because local platforms for performers didn’t exist—workshops and performances brought together Cook Islands, Kiribati, Tonga, Sāmoa and Tahiti dance, music and storytelling. Tongan sport spotlight: Nuku’alofa-born taekwondo athlete Hamish Chimanlal won gold at the 2026 Kimunyong Cup in South Korea, carrying the Tongan flag and completing an International Master Course while aiming at future Pacific Games selection. NRLW rise story: Ashlee Matapo’s fast climb from Warriors development player to NRLW debut and Cook Islands Moana Test appearances shows how opportunity and hard work are paying off. Tonga on the move (policy): Tonga launched its first National Apprenticeship Policy 2026–2030, expanding apprenticeships from tourism and hospitality into areas like fashion design, hairdressing and cookery. Rugby league World Cup readiness: Updates around Tonga players’ fitness and availability are building as the tournament nears, including injury news affecting selection plans. Whales as culture & conservation: Tonga’s whale protection push frames the animals as taonga—valued for tourism and ocean health—while looking at how to safeguard whale routes beyond national waters.

Tonga in the spotlight: Tonga-born All Blacks prop Saula Ma’u made an emotional debut at Ellis Park, coming on late to help New Zealand rally from 35-17 down to beat the Lions 41-35, calling it a “dream come true” and saying he wants more top-level matches. Pacific sport & culture: Stanford’s new coach Tavita Pritchard (Samoan-American heritage) opened his career with a win while the team wore Pacific Heritage Celebration designs, with Samoans and Tongans among the Bay Area crowd. Tonga talent abroad: Hamish Chimanlal won gold for Tonga at the Kimunyong Cup 2026 in South Korea, boosting his taekwondo momentum as he trains in Auckland. Tonga development: Tonga launched its first National Apprenticeship Policy 2026–2030, building on a pilot that already spans cookery, accommodation, fashion design and hairdressing. NRL watch: Manly coach Kieran Foran gave an update on Tolutau Koula’s ankle injury, saying he’s in a moon boot and aiming to be ready for Tonga’s Rugby League World Cup campaign. Arts & identity: The documentary LOMU explores Jonah Lomu’s Tongan upbringing and life beyond rugby fame, screening in UK cinemas from September 7.

Rugby League World Cup build-up: Tonga’s Tolutau Koula is expected to be available for the Kangaroos’ rivals after Manly coach Kieran Foran said the winger/fullback is in a moon boot with a high-grade 2 syndesmosis and should be back in about a month. All Blacks debut spotlight: Tonga-born prop Saula Ma’u made his All Blacks debut at Ellis Park, coming on late to help New Zealand rally from 35-17 down to beat the Lions 41-35. Rugby documentary: Cinemas are set to screen LOMU, a new feature on Jonah Lomu’s life, tracing his Tongan roots, rise to global stardom, and health battles. Pacific sport and identity: FIBA Oceania unveiled the new logo for the 2026 Polynesian Cup (and Women’s Cup), built around a turtle in Polynesian tatau style. Tonga arts & skills: Tonga launched its first National Apprenticeship Policy (2026–2030), aiming to grow apprenticeships across areas including fashion design and hairdressing. Whale protection: Tonga’s whale value and a proposed “blue corridor” plan for safer international waters are highlighted as whales migrate beyond national boundaries.

Tonga in the spotlight: Tonga-born All Blacks prop Saula Ma’u made his debut at Ellis Park, coming on late to help New Zealand rally from 35-17 down to beat the Lions 41-35—an “unreal” dream-come-true moment for the Havelu native. Rugby film buzz: A new feature documentary, LOMU, explores Jonah Lomu’s extraordinary life, including his Tongan roots, meteoric rise, and the health battles behind the myth—screening in cinemas from September 7 in the UK and Ireland. Local arts & culture: Tonga launched its first National Apprenticeship Policy (2026–2030), building pathways from training into work across areas like cookery, accommodation, fashion design and hairdressing. Pacific sport development: Hamish Chimanlal won gold in taekwondo in South Korea and is now chasing more for Tonga, while Va‘a heads global with Pacific paddlers racing in Singapore despite rising costs. Music community: South Auckland’s Ōtara Music Festival (19 September) spotlights young Pacific talent and keeps stories and traditions on stage.