The Kingdom of Tonga is at the Western end of the Polynesian islands between Fiji
and Niue and lies on the cusp of the international dateline. It is the
oldest and last remaining monarchy in Polynesia, and the only Pacific
nation to have resisted colonisation by foreign powers throughout its
history.
Tonga is made up of about 170 islands - 36 of which
are inhabited. These are volcanic and coral islands and atolls. Weather-wise
temperatures are usually mild and warm, although nights can be cool.
December to March is the wet season.
The major island groups are Tongatapu and 'Eua, Ha'apai
and Vava'u. Tongatapu is the capital island, a large, flat sloping atoll
with huge cliffs to the south and a wide lagoon along its northern coast.
As well as many ancient historical sites, Tongatapu has beautiful coral
reefs, exotic caves, and amazing blowholes.
'Eua Island is hilly and forested with high cliffs
and beautiful beaches. The Ha'apai Islands are largely submerged. Tofua,
the largest island in the group, is an active volcano with a hot steaming
lake in its crater.
The Vava'u Islands, north of Ha'apai, are hilly with dense forests and
interspersed with a maze of narrow channels.
It was here that explorer Captain James Cook
landed in 1773. He called Tonga
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Letele, Roshni, Sham, Teleiai Su’a
Edwin, Ruta & Olo Elise on arrival at Faleolo Airport. |
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