Tonga Rugby League, in collaboration with Tourism Tonga, has announced the inaugural Heilala Rugby League 9s tournament, set to take place from Thursday, July 3rd to Saturday, July 5th, as part of the Heilala Festival.
The tournament will feature men’s, women’s, and under-18 teams, welcoming both local and international participants.
The event will conclude on Saturday with a highly anticipated closing concert.
The Heilala Festival, celebrated annually in Tonga, is a major cultural event that honours the country’s royal family and heritage.
Named after the country’s national flower, the Heilala, the festival spans several days, showcasing traditional music, dance, and sporting events.
It serves as a platform to highlight Tongan culture and bring together both locals and visitors.