09 Nov Remembering Tu’i’one Pulotu: A Legacy of Craftsmanship, Culture and Community
MORDI Tonga Trust joins family, friends and the wider community in mourning the passing of Tu’i’one Pulotu, a renowned Tongan master woodcarver, artist and traditional canoe builder whose work helped preserve and celebrate the cultural heritage of Tonga and the wider Pacific.
Originally from Pangai, Ha’apai, Tu’i’one spent more than 40 years in Hawai’i, where he became widely recognised for his mastery of traditional Polynesian craftsmanship. His work included the construction of a 105-foot sailing canoe for the late King Tāufa’āhau Tupou IV and the 57-foot double-hulled Hawaiian voyaging canoe Iosepa for Brigham Young University–Hawai’i. In recognition of his lifelong dedication to traditional arts and the teaching of younger generations, he was honoured with the prestigious Living Treasures of Hawai’i award.
In 2020, while temporarily residing in Tonga, the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent border closures prevented Tu’i’one from returning to Hawai’i. Rather than remain idle during this period, he found another way to serve his community through the skills he had spent a lifetime mastering.
Tu’i’one partnered with MORDI Tonga Trust, with support from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), to lead the first nationwide traditional canoe-carving training programme. The initiative brought together community champions and leaders from ‘Eua, Ha’apai and Vava’u, creating opportunities to pass traditional knowledge and craftsmanship to the next generation.
His contribution extended beyond canoe building. Tu’i’one also played an important role in MORDI Tonga’s efforts to revitalise women’s handicrafts, leading practical workshops on carving traditional ngatu-making tools, including the ike and tutua. Through his patience and willingness to share his knowledge, he helped strengthen the skills that sustain Tonga’s cultural practices and livelihoods.
One of his lasting contributions was a beautifully crafted model kalia, gifted to IFAD’s headquarters. More than a piece of craftsmanship, the gift represented a connection between Tonga and the international development community, brought together through the hands and talents of a man deeply proud of his cultural heritage.
Those who worked alongside Tu’i’one will remember a man who did not seek recognition or praise. He worked quietly, shared generously and allowed his craftsmanship to speak for itself. His influence extended beyond the canoes he built and the tools he carved. It lived in the knowledge he passed on, the friendships he formed and the people he inspired along the way.
A message from the Chairman of the Board
On behalf of the Board, management and staff of MORDI Tonga Trust, the Chairman extends his deepest condolences to Tu’i’one’s family, friends and loved ones during this time of loss.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Tu’i’one Pulotu. His contribution to MORDI Tonga and the communities we serve will always be remembered. He shared his extraordinary talents not for recognition, but out of a genuine desire to give back to his people and preserve the traditions that connect us to our identity. His generosity, humility and dedication left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to have worked with him. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family and friends. May they find comfort in the knowledge that his work, his teachings and the memories he leaves behind will continue to live on.”
Tu’i’one’s passing leaves a space that cannot easily be filled, but his legacy remains in the hands of those he taught, the traditions he helped sustain and the communities he touched.
His light shone brightly during his time with us, and though he is no longer here, the mark he left on our hearts and our cultural heritage will endure.
Mālō ‘aupito, Tu’i’one. Your hands helped keep our traditions alive, and your legacy will continue through generations.
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