The Diocese of Polynesia is mourning the loss of Bishop Afa Vaka, a beloved teacher, father, leader, and spiritual guide.

The late Assistant Bishop Afa Vaka passed away peacefully on the evening of Sunday 13th April at his family residence in Auckland, New Zealand. He was a servant of God and a faithful dedicated member of the clergy of the Diocese of Polynesia for over 20 years.

He was ordained as a deacon at Holy Trinity Church in Auckland in November 2003 and was licensed as a priest serving the ‘Ofa ki he Laumalie Parish in December 2004. Returning to Tonga in 2006, he became a training officer, and in 2010, he assumed responsibility as the Priest-in-Charge at St. Barnabas Anglican Church. In 2017, he was ordained Assistant Bishop for the Tonga Episcopal Unit, faithfully serving in this role and as Vicar of St. Paul’s Anglican Church until his retirement in July 2019. 

Before answering his call to priesthood, the late Assistant Bishop Afa Vaka dedicated himself to education as a teacher and principal at Saint Andrew’s High School, shaping the lives of many students through his leadership and wisdom. He later earned his PhD from Faith Seminary in Tonga, continuing to blend his passion for learning and spiritual guidance throughout his ministry.

Bishop Vaka's legacy as a loving father to his children, a person of service, compassion, and spiritual leadership will long be cherished by the Diocese of Polynesia and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The late Bishop Vaka will be repatriated from New Zealand to the Kingdom of Tonga on Wednesday 23rd of April. The Tonga Episcopal Unit of the Anglican Diocese of Polynesia will hold prayers at the late Bishop’s residence from Monday 21st of April 2025 - Thursday 24th April 2025. 

On Friday, April 25, 2025, His body will be brought to St. Paul's Anglican Church at 6:00 AM to lie in wake. The funeral service will commence at 11:00 AM and will be conducted by the Most Reverend Sione Silongo Uluilakepa, Bishop of the Diocese of Polynesia. Family, friends, and members of the community are invited to attend and pay their respects.​