New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters has unveiled Tonga’s future Parliament design.
The new Fale Alea complex will be constructed on the elevated Lakalakaimonu Estate in Pea, Tongatapu, aiming to mitigate risks from cyclones and rising sea levels.
The NZD $32 million project is jointly funded by New Zealand and Australia, with construction slated to begin in September and completion targeted for late 2027.
The new complex will include meeting rooms, a media space, a throne room for the King and Royal Family, a library, and a kitchen. The design also incorporates 84 car parking spaces and Tongan cultural elements. The building is engineered to withstand Category 5 cyclones and 1% AEP storm events.
During the unveiling, the delegation experienced a 3D virtual tour of the new Fale Alea and engaged with youth parliament participants.
Lord Fakafanua, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, remarked, “We are reminded of the wisdom of Tupou I in uniting the people and again today we are united on your royal estate.” He expressed gratitude to the governments of New Zealand and Australia for their assistance in rebuilding the Legislative Assembly.
The original Parliament House, established in 1892, was destroyed by Cyclone Gita in 2018. Since then, parliamentary proceedings have been held at the Tonga National Centre.
