Results for Tourism

Tonga’s multi-million pa'anga whale watching and swimming tourist attraction is challenged by the findings of a new study by the Auckland University of Technology.

Tourism’s potential to play a key role in job creation and economic growth globally while also contributing to the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Agenda, was recognized at an event organized by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in Geneva, Switzerland.

Attempts were made to silence the outgoing Miss Heilala 2018, Kalo Funganitao, after Miss Heilala officials tonight unplugged her microphone during her final speech. Kalo had started to voice her struggles over the past year, and criticized Tongan organisers for their lack of support at the Miss Pacific Islands beauty pageant held in Nuku'alofa last year.

Fantastic island creations and colourful sarongs were showcased on Wednesday night July 3, during the 2019 Miss Heilala Pageant, at the Queen Salote Memorial Hall.

The top five contestants were announced for the Miss Heilala Pre-Pageant Interview held on July 1, the first judging event held at the Fa‘onelua Convention Centre.

Twenty out of 25 contestants vying for the Miss Heilala 2019 crown, made their first public appearance this afternoon, June 26 at the Fa'onelua Convention Centre in Nuku'alofa. Photos by Linny Folau.

Melefifita Percilla ‘Alovili from Brisbane will participate in the Miss Heilala Pageant, from June 26 to July 5, a highlight of the Heilala Festival in Nuku'alofa.

“Gastronomy tourism” or food tourism is an opportunity to promote local economic growth and include more people in development. Because we are all “eaters” the exploration of food has become a large part of the tourism experience worldwide.

A weekly direct flight to Tonga from mainland China is being negotiated and is planned to be launched before the end of the year, according to the Ministry of Tourism.