A final remembrance is set for Saturday at Hilo Bayfront for Kafoa Hala Latu, founder of Tui Tonga Canoe Club Hawaii and New Zealand, who passed away Sunday, Oct. 10, 2021. His body was recovered by a rescue helicopter from the waters off New Zealand’s Waikowhai Beach. His outrigger canoe failed, and the 53-year-old was immersed in the freezing waters for too long.
Hala Latu moved to the Big Island from New Zealand in the mid-1990s. He loved sports and quickly got involved in football, soccer, tennis, and golf. He later joined Kai Ehitu Canoe Club, coached by Richard Kimitete.
In 2005, his crew finished second at the Molokai Hoe, and he decided to form his own canoe club. After a year, Tui Tonga was born. With almost 200 members, Tui Tonga became one of the more competitive clubs in the Moku O Hawaii Outrigger Canoe Racing Association and the Hawaii Canoe Racing Association.
Hala Latu also helped create the Tui Tonga Canoe Club New Zealand, which is still in operation under president Fole Finau.
“He was instrumental in supporting the resurgence of rowing in the Tonga community,” Finau said.
Tui Tonga Hawaii operated from 2006 until 2011 when Hala Latu moved back to New Zealand. He assisted his club there before becoming head coach at Portage Crossing Outrigger Canoe Club.
A small remembrance was held Nov. 7, 2011 at the Hawaii Island Paddlesports Association’s halau at Honokohau Harbor.
Hala Latu is survived by partner Katherine Jacoby Teaupa Williams, and his children Paul, Sam, Ta’u, Tevita,and Meleana. He is laid to rest at Mangere Lawn Cemetery.