Bring your ta'ovala

The Ta'ovala is a traditional Tongan mat worn around the waist by men and women at all formal occasions, much like the tie for men in Western culture.  In Tongan households, we often store the Ta'ovala underneath our bed as it helps flatten the ta'ovala for the next time we wear it, as it becomes wrinkled with daily use. This method of flattening our ta'ovala serves as a connection between us and the earth as we lie down on our bed. It relies on our weight to neaten our traditional mat. I myself can feel the intricate relationship as I lay on my bed, knowing there is a piece of my culture that can help keep me grounded and valued in this unfamiliar space. 

O'Rorke Hall is a catered hall that offers private bedrooms with shared bathrooms, study rooms, and a communal lounge on each floor. O'Rorke offers specific community-focused floors and pods for Pacific and Rainbow students. O'Rorke Hall is the University's first Hall of Residence and celebrates it's 75th anniversary this year.

O'Rorke Hall is available for first-year school-leavers.