Between $3 million and $4 million NZ is expected to be spent on the Tongan King's coronation this summer, perhaps in part because the King's special guest list is expected to feature some well-known personalities.
The Tongan government has been tight-lipped about preparations for the event, but did mention that celebrations for King Tupou V will begin with a traditional kava ceremony on 30 July.
The coronation ceremony itself will be held on August 1.
Matangi Tonga newspaper editor Pesi Fonua says it has been a tough couple of years following the November 2006 riot and the people of Tonga are looking forward to the celebrations.
But he says rumours that Elton, Mick Jagger and Sean Connery will attend the coronation are just hearsay.
