Mālō e lelei! Welcome to the Uike Kātoanga’i ‘o e lea faka-Tonga (Tonga Language Week).  The 2022 theme is Ke Tu'uloa 'a e lea faka-Tönga′ 'i Aotearoa, which means Sustaining the Tonga Language in Aotearoa.  

During the week we have shared some Tongan proverbs.

Fangota kihe kato ‘ava – Fishing with a bag that has holes in it

This proverb shows that while you can have all the skills and the right attitude, if you don’t look after the basic needs, you will fail.

Si’i pe kae hā – We are a small island, we are still great

This proverb basically says it all – you don’t have to be large in numbers, have lots of resources or money to be great.

Ala ‘i Sia, Ala ‘i Kolonga – Skillful at Sia, Skillful at Kolonga

This proverb is in reference to the snaring of pigeons – heu lupe. The sia is the mound on which the pigeons were trapped and the kolonga is the cooking place. This proverb honours the skills of the trapper who was not only skillful in snaring the pigeons but also skillful at cooking the pigeons. In a modern context this proverb honours those who are adaptable in various environments, new places or situations.

Faka’ita fai ki tahi – Anger bestowed on the sea

This proverb means do not let anger rule your judgement.

‘Oua lau e kafo kae lau e lava – Stay positive and count your blessings

This proverb reminds us to be thankful for what we have and keep moving forward.