Protester named as King of Tonga heads home for birthday

Taufa'ahau Tupou IV

The King of Tonga has returned home to Nuku'alofa for the first time in about three months to participate in celebrations marking his 88th birthday.

Illness had prevented a sooner return by King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV from Auckland, where he has been receiving medical treatment.

On Saturday, the frail-looking monarch faced a fiery protest hours before he boarded his flight home.

Anti-monarchy activist Alani Taione, 40, was charged after a car was driven into the gates of the royal estate in Epsom and set on fire. Taione, who later appeared in court, claims he decided to protest after hearing reports of soldiers on patrol in Tonga.

He wants an end to the monarchy and for Tonga to become a republic.

The Auckland Tongan community is divided over the subject of the King.

Some members say that older people support the monarchy while younger Tongans here believe it is time for a change.