Makahokovalu (faʻitoka)/en
Makahokovalu, 8-joined-stones is a fairly common name in Tonga, but the cemetery (faʻitoka) of that name is located on the north coast of ʻUiha in Haʻapai, directed to the Hangavale coast. It is mound of earth (ʻesi) surrounded by huge stones. There are many stories about its meaning, and we can only give a few here.
First a explanation about its construction. One counts 8 stones for each of its 4 sites, making 32 total. [Originally these stones were huge coral slabs. Over time some broke and wore away and nowadays several have been replaced by reinforced concrete slabs.]
Turning towards the story of the origin and history of the Makahokovalu, a monument in Tonga like no other. [Incorrect: it is much like many other buruial mounds in Tonga, especially the langi of Lapaha.]
It is said that it is built by Valu as a burial mound for his daughter ʻUngatea, who married in ʻUiha. Valu originally came from Uonuku, where he made his living, but he followed his daughter to ʻUiha. Uonoku consists of 2 small islands, together with Tofonga: 3 islets, south of ʻUiha. His place overthere is known as Faleʻovalu (house of Valu), and still exists nowadays.
