While not quite a homecoming, Tongan royalty has returned to familiar territory on a visit to Australia's bush capital.
King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau'u have been welcomed by Governor-General Sam Mostyn and the Federation Guard with a smoking ceremony at Government House in Canberra on Friday.
The royals are also due to visit Sydney as part of their week-long trip - the first official visit by a Tongan head of state to Australia in 46 years.
The king's welcome to Government House included a signing ceremony between Australia and Tonga for a statement of intent to lift the countries' bilateral relationship.
The statement committed to lifting the partnership with an agreement known as Kaume'a Ofi, which means close friends.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the visit would strengthen bonds between Australia and Tonga.
"Their majesties' visit to Australia demonstrates the importance of our bilateral relationship and depth of the cultural and personal connections between our two countries spanning 200 years," she said in a statement.
"The visit will celebrate our strong defence ties, scientific innovation in heath and rich connections across faith."
The ceremonial visit is not the first time Tonga's head of state has been in Canberra on official business.
King Tupou VI became Tonga's first high commissioner to Australia in 2008 and lived in Canberra for four years before ascending to the throne upon the death of his elder brother, King Tupou V.
The king's daughter, Princess Angelika Latufuipeka Tuku'aho, then held the role until 2023, when she stood down to complete doctoral studies at the Australian National University's Department of Pacific Affairs.
The Tongan royals will take part in an investiture ceremony in Sydney for Tongans living in Australia who assisted in the aftermath of the 2022 Hunga Ha'apai volcano disaster.
It will be followed by a church service on Sunday, with members of the Tongan diaspora invited to attend.
The Pacific nation will celebrate 150 years as a constitutional monarchy in November.
