HAWAIIAN DISCOVERY IS A DIVISION OF TONGA TRADING CO., LTD.

IMPORTERS AND MANUFACTURERS OF FINE FURNISHING SINCE 1969

During World War II, Texas born Andrew B. White Sr. (later nicknamed Pai Pai) was deployed by Uncle Sam to Wallis Island, a French territory near Tonga. It was there that Pai Pai realized his talents as a natural linguist, and he soon became the only one of the nearly 4000 U.S. servicemen to become fluent in the Wallisian language. Thus, he developed a kinship with the local people and was summoned by the islands monarch, King Leone Matekitoga. The king was so impressed with the talents of the young Marine, he eventually adopted Pai Pai formally and dubbed him Prince Mulikihaamea Matekitoga.

During World War II, Texas born Andrew B. White Sr. (later nicknamed Pai Pai) was deployed by Uncle Sam to Wallis Island, a French territory near Tonga. It was there that Pai Pai realized his talents as a natural linguist, and he soon became the only one of the nearly 4000 U.S. servicemen to become fluent in the Wallisian language. Thus, he developed a kinship with the local people and was summoned by the islands monarch, King Leone Matekitoga. The king was so impressed with the talents of the young Marine, he eventually adopted Pai Pai formally and dubbed him Prince Mulikihaamea Matekitoga.

A few years later, in 1971, the Tonga Trading Co., Ltd. was incorporated in the state of Hawaii. Only the best quality, authentic handicraft art was procured, and Pai Pai began specializing in replicating Pacific art and artifacts found in museums and major private collections, often referred to as Tiki statues. Additionally, genuine tapa cloth, Koa Canoe Paddles, standard outrigger canoe paddles, ceremonial kava bowls, woven Pandanus leaf mats and baskets are but just a few of the treasures that Pai Pai was sharing with the world.

As the years passed, the Tonga Trading Co., Ltd. prospered; decorating and providing products for homes, restaurants, hotels, cruise ships, movie theaters, hula halaus, museums, crafters and more. As the company’s reputation grew strong and its roots became fortified, Pai Pai and his wife Sapeta began to slow down. James Kahekili Foti joined the business to help Pai Pai and Sapeta perpetuate the Tonga Trading Company’s good business ethic, quality and personality.

In 1989, fresh out of college, “Jim” was interested in Pacific Island culture as well as international trade and travel. Since Jim was “calabash” son to Pai Pai and Sapeta, they shortly thereafter entrusted him with their baby, and they settled into retirement to fulfill their life as grandparents.

Today, under Foti leadership, the Hawaiian Discovery division has grown into a thriving furniture business, providing furniture for hotels, restaurants, offices, hospitals, schools, and many happy Hawaii residents. One of the many reasons for our success is the perpetuation of Tonga Trading Company’s code of ethics. We promise to provide high quality products and excellent service with integrity – since 1969.