Tonga: Koloa - Fala (Woven Mats) & Ngatu (cloth made from tree bark)

We have traditional homemade materials that are sourced locally, naturally and created without any machinery.

First there is our fala or woven mats. There is a plethora of different types of fala. The fala’s rank and worth is dependent on a few different factors. There are various types of lou’akau that range in color and pliability. There is the dimensional size (L x W) of the fala and the size of the individual weave. To achieve a higher-than-normal rank a fala must be made of a rare or softer lou’akau, be large in dimensional size and have a small individual weave.

Next is our Ngatu or bark cloth. The most important part in determining the worth of the ngatu is the length and width of the finished product. The beauty of the Kupesi (formal designs) also contributes to its value. But above all if any of these gifts are given from someone who is of high rank or nobility this is when our koloa become priceless and turn into heirlooms. Here in the Tongan Village, we have a demonstration of how ngatu is made. We are also blessed to have been endowed with Koloa from the current Queen as a gift that is displayed daily in our Queen Salote’s Summer House.