The Tonga Hawaiki Cable Branch System, the country’s second international undersea cable, was commissioned by the Prince Regent HRH Crown Prince Tupouto'a 'Ulukalala, in Neiafu, Vava’u yesterday, 26 May 2026.
The Prince Regent named the cable "Tu'i Vava'u".
Jointly funded by Australia, through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP), and New Zealand, the cable provides Tongan communities and businesses with access to a more reliable, higher-capacity network, supporting essential services and furthering social and economic growth.
The second international undersea cable will also strengthen Tonga’s disaster resilience and response by reducing the risk of network disruptions, such as those experienced in 2019 and 2022.
The 405 kilometre Tonga Hawaiki Cable is part of a broader network of undersea telecommunications cables being delivered across the Pacific supported by the AIFFP, with several projects expected to come online this year.
Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong said, “Australia is pleased to partner with Tonga and New Zealand to deliver the reliable, high-quality digital infrastructure needed to support regional economic growth, security and prosperity.”
Her ministry stated that the trilateral partnership between Australia, Tonga and New Zealand reflects a shared commitment to delivering high-quality critical infrastructure that responds to national and regional priorities, strengthens essential services, and delivers long-term, Pacific-led solutions that enhance our region’s security.
Australia's Pacific Island Affairs Minister, Pat Conroy noted "The cable will create new opportunities for Tonga’s people and businesses, while strengthening the country’s ability to stay connected during times of disruption.”
