Tonga
General Information for Tonga
Geo-political:
Capital City: Nuku'alofa.
Nationality: (noun) Tongan, (adjective) Tongan.
Population: 120,898.
Communications:
International Direct Dial Code: 676.
Number of Internal Airports: 1.
Major Languages Spoken: Tongan, English.
Economy:
Currency: 1 Paianga (TOP) of 100 Seniti.
Main Industries: Tourism, construction and fishing.
Environment:
Territorial Sea: 12 n.m.
Other Maritime Claims: Continental Shelf: 200 m depth or to the depth of exploitation. Exclusive Economic Zone: 200 n.m.
Coastline Extent: 419 km.
Climate: Tropical; modified by trade winds; warm season (December to May), cool season (May
to December).
Natural Resources: Fish and fertile soil.
Natural Hazards: Cyclones (October to April); earthquakes and volcanic activity on Fonuafo'ou.
Terrain: Most islands have limestone base formed from uplifted coral formation; others have
limestone overlying volcanic base.
Average Temperatures:
| Month | High | Low |
|---|---|---|
| January | 31° C | 19° C |
| June | 28° C | 14° C |
| September | 27° C | 13° C |
MEDICAL:
Tonga is classified as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. There has been an
increase in dengue fever cases recorded in Vavau. You should take measures to avoid
being bitten by mosquitoes.
Health facilities in Tonga are basic. The range of drugs available is limited and
modern equipment is in short supply. Medical evacuation from Tonga is required for
most non-basic medical problems. Make sure you have adequate health insurance and
accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.
If you need emergency medical assistance during your stay, dial 933 and ask for an
ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if
you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.
HOLIDAYS:
1 January (New Years Day); Good Friday; Easter Monday; 25 April (Anzac Day); 12 July
(Crown Prince's Birthday); 4 June (Emancipation Day); 1 August (His Majesty Birthday
and Coronation); 4 November (Constitution Day), 4 December (His Majesty's Tupou I's
Birthday); 25 December (Christmas Day); 26 December (Boxing Day).
WEATHER/TIDES:
Natural Disasters:
Earthquakes:
Tonga is part of the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire’, a zone of frequent earthquakes and volcanic
eruptions that surrounds the basin of the Pacific Ocean. Earthquakes and volcanic
activity can occur at any time, and can trigger tsunami alerts. You should familiarise
yourself with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake, and take note of earthquake
and tsunami related instructions e.g. in hotel rooms.
Tropical Cyclones:
The tropical cyclone season in Tonga normally runs from November to April but cyclones
can occur throughout the year. During this period there is a greater risk of strong
winds and heavy rains with associated flooding, landslides and road closures.
You should monitor local and international weather updates from the Tonga Meteorological
Service in local newspapers and on Radio Tonga 1 and 2 on 1017 AM and 90 FM, and follow
the advice of the local authorities including any evacuation orders.
Meterological service
www.met.gov.to
BANKS:
The currency in Tonga is ``Pa’anga''. ATMs are available in the capital city Nuku’alofa
and in the main towns of 'Eua island and the Ha’apai island group.
SHORE LEAVE:
Most visits to Tonga are trouble free. The crime rate is low; however, petty crime
and theft do take place. You should remain vigilant, especially at night.
Tongan society is very conservative and highly religious. You will be expected to
dress modestly and respect local customs and culture. Tonga strictly observes the
Sabbath. On Sundays any recreational activities undertaken outside of Island resorts
may be seen as provocative.
Homosexuality is technically illegal in many Pacific countries and the law is occasionally
enforced. Open displays of affection between same-sex partners may cause offence.
Drug taking in all forms is illegal. Importing or exporting illegal drugs attracts
a maximum penalty of 30 years hard labour and/or a fine of several hundred thousand
US dollars. Those found guilty of cultivating or distributing illegal drugs are likely
to receive similarly severe punishment.
