The Public Service Association of Tonga is now in the 5th week of their strike. 3000 teachers and other public servants demand pay increases of up to 80%! The dispute is unlikely to be resolved soon with both sides negotiating at a two steps forward and four steps backward speed. [ Report ]

One of the King’s homes in Tonga, Uoleva, was destroyed in a fire early yesterday morning. No one was hurt in the blaze. The fire department is still trying to determine the cause of the fire. [ Report ]

Solidarity protests were held over the last few days at the King’s residence in Auckland. [ Report ] King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV is currently in Auckland to attend the engagement party of his granddaughter. Several people were arrested last night and charged with disorderly behaviour when they tried to break through a police line. A rock was thrown at the house, breaking a window.

The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions put out a media release stating that “Unions in New Zealand and around the Pacific [are] concerned for their fellow workers in Tonga”. Unions from New Zealand have sent financial support to Tonga for the striking workers and their families. [ Media Release ]