The head of Tonga's amateur and Olympic committee, Lord Vaea, is putting his final hopes of the country hosting the 2019 Pacific Games in a petition to the king.
The prime minister 'Akilisi Pohiva has told a meeting with the Pacific Games Council that he is adhering to his announcement last month to pull out of hosting the event.
RNZI reports Vaea said Mr Pohiva never gave the council a chance to offer its assistance and alterative options.
He said now a petition involving the sporting community, school principals and members of the general public will be presented to the king next week.
"He takes it into consideration but also it's an indication to the government to acknowledge that there is big support for the games to be held in Tonga," Vaea said.
"They will be amazed at the amount of people supporting the petition that goes to the king. It is an appeal to the king. We're hoping for several thousand here in signatures."
Photo: Head of Tonga's amateur and Olympic committee, Noble MP Lord Vaea