Results for Tonga

Prices for petrol, diesel and kerosene have all risen for the next month mid-January to mid-February, following the weakening of the pa'anga. The Tonga Competent Authority approved the prices to be effective from today January 16.

The inaugural declaration by the UN General Assembly for 2017 as the first International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development is a great incentive for Tonga and a time for some serious reflection on why we are failing to build a more sustainable tourism industry - one that can prosper and create more jobs. Editor's Comment, by Pesi Fonua

Two men have been charged with selling 58 bottles of liquor without a license in Fanga. The bust is the latest of a series of raids conducted by Tonga Police over the last month.

There is more sweltering warm weather ahead, says Tonga’s Meteorology department, with temperatures forecast to remain between 25C – 31C during the week with humidity between 80 - 90%. If you are heading to the beach to cool off, be aware of extreme high tides during the evenings this week.

Prizes were awarded by the Tonga Leities Association for the inaugural 2016 Tapa Pride Float Parade on December 10, concluding two weeks of activism against gender violence, with Tonga Police Rescue Boat winning $500 for best float.

Improvements to Nuku'alofa's roads and drainage, under a successful multi-million project started in 2008, are "less than likely to be sustainable" if they are not properly maintained, warns a report released by the Asian Development Bank. "There is a lack of evidence that the government has recognised the importance of maintenance of the improved assets," the report concluded.

A blaze engulfed an old timber house on Railway Road, Kolofo’ou, this morning, destroying the property within minutes. Hotspots that spread across the road to the Hilliard Memorial School property were extinguished. Tonga’s Fire Department urges caution, warning that fires can spread rapidly in Tongatapu's current hot, dry, windy weather.

Tonga's new government office block, St George Palace at Pangai Si’i, is emerging from its scaffolding wraps in the Nuku’alofa Central Business District, as constuction nears completion.

2017 is the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, declared by the United Nations General Assembly on 29 December as it pushes for a more inclusive industry. As more tourists look to enjoy a unique experience in a healthy and pristine natural environment, sustainable tourism will need to be developed to deliver and operate responsibly to survive.