Pasifika weightlifters carry NZ flag at Mini Games opening

Two proud Pasifika weightlifters will carry the New Zealand flag into the opening ceremony of the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau.

Tongan powerhouses David Liti and Tui-Alofa Patolo, who are part of a nine-member weightlifting team, have been named flagbearers for Team Aotearoa. The opening ceremony can be viewed live on the PMN website.

For Patolo, who is making her New Zealand Team debut in the Women’s +86kg weight class, the honour came as an unexpected but emotional moment.

“When I got the call, I was shocked. I was not expecting it at all, it’s such a huge honour and I’m so grateful,” she says.

The 34-year-old says the opportunity is not just about representing a country.

“We’re training hard to make ourselves and the people we’re representing proud, our families, our coaches, our clubs and of course our country.”

Tui-Alofa Patolo was shocked when she got the call to be a flag-bearer. Photo/Supplied.

Walking alongside her is Commonwealth Games gold medallist David Liti, who will carry the flag for the third time at a Pacific sports event.

At just 28, Liti is already considered a veteran in the weightlifting arena, but says the pride he feels hasn’t dulled.

“It’s like being the captain of the 1st XV or the Prime Minister of New Zealand. You’re the team leader at these events. I’m super proud and super pumped; it’s one of the best feelings.”

Tongan David Liti will carry the New Zealand flag for the third time at a Pacific Games event. Photo/Supplied.

Liti, who competes in the Men’s +110kg category, has deep roots in both New Zealand and Tonga, and says his motivation to wear the black singlet comes from a desire to continually improve and inspire.

“We come from a country where competing against each other is the norm. I’ve adapted to that, and I just want to be the best. Until I get what I want from weightlifting, I’ll still be motivated.”

He also acknowledges the leadership role he now plays for younger lifters like Patolo and the seven others making their New Zealand Team debut in Palau.

“I feel like a veteran, I’m 28 but feel like I’m 50. I’m always happy to share my knowledge and be there for those just starting out. I hope when we get to Palau, they can trust me.”

Patolo says she already feels emotional thinking about the moment she and Liti will walk into the stadium carrying the New Zealand flag.

“I feel like every time I even start to think about it, I’ll start crying. I’m just grateful for the opportunity, and to do it alongside someone like David is special as well.”

Listen to PMN Sports Correspondent James Nokise's update from Palau below.

The 2025 Pacific Mini Games officially opens in Palau on June 29, with New Zealand athletes competing from 2 July. The team boasts a strong Pacific presence, featuring many athletes of Sāmoan, Tongan, and other island heritages. Tonight's opening ceremony starts at 9pm, New Zealand Time.

Full New Zealand Weightlifting Team – Palau 2025 Pacific Mini Games

(* indicates New Zealand Team debut)

• Hannah Close* (Women’s U58kg)

• Holly Drain (Women’s U77kg)

• Sienna Fesolai (Women’s U69kg)

• David Liti (Men’s +110kg)

• Tui-Alofa Patolo* (Women’s +86kg)

• Louise Richards* (Women’s U63kg)

• Monica Saili-Hiakita* (Women’s U77kg)

• Judy Soloai* (Women’s +86kg)

• Vernon Taylor (Men’s U71kg)