 The son of Ratu Banuve Baleivavalagi, 3rd Vunivalu of Bau and his second wife, Roko Lewasaki.He was the father of the first Tui Viti, Ratu Seru Epenisa Cakobau, Ratu Tanoa was installed as Vunivalu upon the death of his elder brother Ratu Naulivou Ramatenikutu, who was involved in a fierce power struggle against the Roko Tui Bau, Ratu Raiwalui, which led to his death.The idea of a Tui Viti was conceived in the reign of Tanoa but saw fruition in the reign of his son Seru.