Tonga’s first Life Vest Loaner Station was opened at Houmelei Wharf in Vava'u on 29 July.

It was established by the Volunteer Maritime Response Association (VMRA [2]), and offers life vests for the public to borrow for free, and return to the station after use. The station is available for 24 hours, 7 days a week.

The aim of loaning life vests is to improve passenger safety for infants, children, and youth when travelling to and from Vava'u Island and the outer islands; encourage others to wear life vests while travelling by boat; and reduce the risk of drownings.

The loaner station at Houmelei Wharf project was supported by the Governor of Vava’u, Lord Fakatulolo, the Community Engagement Manager at Coastguard New Zealand, Aoife Healy, and funding from the Australian High Commission in Tonga.

The VMRA hopes to establish more Life Vest Loaner Stations across Tonga with the help of financial partners, communities, and organizations interested in this program.

Another station is to be opened at Neiafu Harbour in Vava’u.