Funeral cortege

Tongans have dressed in traditional attire as a sign of respect following the passing away of Mr Pohiva in Auckland, New Zealand last week.

Buildings have also been draped in black and purple fabric.

The funeral cortege is expected to arrive at Fuamotu International Airport at 3.30pm (local time) where the casket will be received by a delegation led acting Prime Minister Semisi Sika.

The casket is being brought home from Auckland on board a Royal New Zealand Air Force aircraft.

A group of grieving Tongans gathered at Whenuapai Airport in Auckland where they sang mournfully as the Queen Mother's body was carried onto the plane that will take her home.

The flight departed for Tonga at 9.25am.(local time)

The 90-year-old matriarch died in Auckland on Sunday, February 19.

1 NEWS Pacific Correspondent Barbara Dreaver was given exclusive access to the royal family at Tonga's official residence in Auckland.