By Katalina Siasau

A significant petrol shortage in Vava'u, which reportedly began yesterday, is causing concern and outrage among residents and local business owners today. Meanwhile, Pacific Energy Limited (Tonga) told Matangi Tonga that fuel will be resupplied to Vava'u on Monday, 8 September.

Siuaalo Adventures, a whale watching business in Vava'u, told Matangi Tonga today that their operations have been heavily impacted.

"The bowser did not notify us that there would be a petrol shortage. We were surprised to find it closed today,” their spokesperson said.

“Some boats have enough fuel to continue but our business has been badly affected.”

Vava'u is a popular destination for whale watching, with the season running from July through October, whale watching is currently in the peak activity period in the island.

Meanwhile, local residents have also voiced their concerns on social media. Photos circulating online show people lining up at a bowser in Neiafu, some even exiting their vehicles with bottles in hand to secure their share of petrol. Vehicles are seen lining the road near a bowser.

Vava Lapota, the town officer in Neiafutahi, said, "Development for tourism, agriculture, and fisheries in Vava'u will be lost!" He called out the parliamentary representatives for Vava'u regarding the issue.

Fuel supplier

Pacific Energy Limited‘s Tonga Manager, Paula Taufa, told Matangi Tonga that fuel will be resupplied to Vava'u on Monday next week, 8 September. 

He said that the tanker was expected to arrive in Tonga on Saturday, with resupply scheduled for Monday.

Taufa explained that a delay in the tanker's arrival was a contributing factor to the shortage. "Due to unusual weather events this year, and many severe weather," had delayed tankers.

He noted the demand for fuel in Vava'u was increasing.

"Another factor is the increased demand for fuel in Vava'u, particularly during the current whale watching season."

In the future he said Pacific Energy Limited was planning to expand and increase storage tanks for Vava'u to supply the increased demand, especially during peak seasons.