Wendy Pond has studied Tonga since the 1960s and has researched the journals of explorer James Cook.
Dr Pond has supported and signed a 1000-plus signature petition that has been presented to parliament to stop the residential development of land around Popua.
She says the area is linked to the ancient Tu'i Tonga royal dynasty, traditional pigeon hunting grounds and visits by Captain Cook.
Dr Pond says the area is well-known but sadly the government seems to have other priorities than protecting it.
