The inhabitants of Tu‘anuku village in Vava‘u, Tonga, are recognised as custodians of the nation’s largest freshwater ecosystem, which surrounds Lake Ano. Central to this role is the practice of weaving kutu (Chinese water chestnut, Eleocharis dulcis), in which local women transform the slender freshwater reeds into culturally significant mats and wearable textiles. The women of Tu‘anuku are renowned for creating large-scale fala kuta (household/ceremonial kuta mats) to honour their village’s relationship to Tonga’s monarchy through the Finau ‘Ulukalala dynasty of Vava‘u.

‘Aunofo Havea Funaki, born and raised in Tu‘anuku, led the design and creation of Fala Kuta e Toa ko Tavakefai‘ana 2024 with the Lepamahanga Women’s Group, consisting of her family and neighbours. Similar groups are commonly formed in villages to provide support for weavers. The woven kupesi (patterns) hold layered meanings that highlight the village’s historical and cultural significance. These include tavake, a chiefly bird and symbol of the ‘Ulukalala lineage and their dominion over the four familial clans of Tu‘anuku. Hemehema loutoa is an ancient pattern distinguished by four radiating lines surrounding three fo‘i hea (symbolic dots). For the makers, this pattern represents the leaves and seeds of the Toa tree (Casuarina), which stood outside the high chief’s house, and honours the four clans’ duty to protect the ‘Ulukalala chief.

Fala Kuta e Toa ko Tavakefai‘ana realises Funaki’s vision of helping her community reconnect with their local stories, resources and knowledge. It emphasises the vital role women play in sustaining cultural and environmental health through their creative practices, while linking these efforts to global conversations on sustainability.