Tongatapu
The Kingdom of Tonga
A constitutional monarchy located east of Fiji, this nation includes 170 tropical islands with a population of just 100,000. The currency is the Tongan pa'anga (TOP$).
Situated just west of the International Date Line and east of Fiji, Tonga is unique in that it is the only Polynesian country never to have been colonized, and the only monarchy in the Pacific. A proud, independent nation with a rich cultural history, the Kingdom of Tonga offers visitors a sense of discovery and adventure. It has many sought-after attributes including a pristine natural environment; beautiful reefs and beaches; a warm tropical climate; friendly dignified people; cultural traditions; and few tourists.
In this age of political volatility, international travellers, particularly families, increasingly perceive Tonga as a safe haven. Like Fletcher Christian and the crew of the Bounty, today's visitors are reluctant to leave this charming South Pacific island paradise; many more yearn to return!
The Tongan National Anthem
'E 'Otua Mafimafi,
Ko ho mau 'Eimi koe,
Ko Koe ko e falala 'anga,
Mo e 'ofa ki Tonga:
'Afio hifo 'emau lotu
'Aia 'oku mau fai ni,
Mo ke tali ho mau loto
'O malu'i 'a Tupou.
English Translation
Oh Almighty God above,
Thou art our Lord and sure defence,
In our goodness we do trust Thee
And our Tonga Thou dost love;
Hear our prayer, for though unseen
We know that Thou hast blessed our land;
Grant our earnest supplication,
and save Tupou our King.
The Tongan People
Entering an outer island village in the ancient Polynesian Kingdom of Tonga is like walking back in time.Here, the people are doing as they have done for centuries: living off the sea and the land. The villages are tidy, simple, and traditional; the villagers exceptionally friendly and generous. Our indigenous guides are an important link to this fascinating culture.
Climate
The climate of Tonga is very pleasant, being slightly cooler and less humid than most tropical areas. May through December (our season) temperatures range from approximately 22-32C (72-90F), the mean humidity hovers around 74% and the trade winds blow an average of 13-18 knots - often perfect weather for paddling and adventuring.
More Information About Tonga
Tonga Visitors' Bureau, Tonga
P.O. Box 37
Nuku'alofa
Kingdom of Tonga
Phone: +676-25-334
Fax: +676-23-507
Tonga Visitors' Bureau, New Zealand
P.O. Box 24-054
Royal Oak, Auckland
New Zealand
Phone: (09) 634-1519
Fax: (09) 636-8973
TONGA HOLIDAY
The Tonga Visitors' Bureau website contains useful information for planning your vacation in Tonga.
THEKINGDOMOFTONGA.COM
The Official Tourism Tonga website.
LONELY PLANET WORLD GUIDE
An excellent reference guide to Tonga.
VAVAU.TO
An informative online guide to the Vava'u Group, Kingdom of Tonga, detailing activities, accommodation, events and more!
SOUTHPACIFIC.ORG
South Pacific Travel
Tonga Consulate Office
360 Post Street
Suite 604
San Francisco
CA 94108
United States of America
Phone: (415) 781-0365
Fax: (415) 781-3964
Tonga High Commission
36 Moyneux Street
London
W1H 6AB
England
Phone: (071) 724-5828
Fax: (071) 723-9074
Tongan Consulate-General
158 Pacific Highway
North Sidney
NSW 2060
Australia
Phone: (02) 929-8794
