Kia orana, Tuamanator

Samoan heavyweight boxer David ‘Tuamanator’ Tua arrived on the rock yesterday and will be the guest speaker at tonight’s annual sports awards at the Aroa Nui hall in Arorangi.

Tua arrived without fanfare to be met by a delegation from the Cook Islands Sports and Olympic Committee and from the Samoan community.

When she adorned the heavyweight boxer with an ei, CISNOC secretary general Rosie Blake commented that she had imagined Tua to be a much bigger built man.

“I am – in the ring!” laughed Tua before heading to his accommodation to prepare for an evening feast with the Samoan community.

Tua has a busy schedule today and tomorrow before departing our shores on Sunday afternoon.

Early this morning he will be hosted by Nukutere College before conducting a talk show on 88FM at 9am followed by a visit to CISNOC sponsors through the day.

Trader Jacks will host the boxer for lunch before Tua gets ready for the sports awards evening.

On Saturday, Tua will visit a number of sporting events across the island including the fight night at the Banana Court before leaving on Sunday.