Tonga

Tonga has similar rates of crime to Australia. 

Crimes may include:

• robbery
• assault
• sexual assault
• theft
• break-ins

Violent incidents can occur at popular nightclubs and bars, particularly late at night. Remain aware of your surroundings, avoid confrontational situations, and follow the advice of venue staff and local authorities.

Avoid going out alone at night, and be careful visiting isolated locations, including beaches. 

Keep doors, windows, and gates locked and don’t leave belongings unattended.  

Thieves target electronic equipment such as tablets, mobile phones and other portable electronic devices.

Take care of your security and be vigilant of your surroundings.

Drink spiking

Methanol poisoning

Cyber security

Civil unrest is rare, but any public protest or event that draws a large group of people can turn violent.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid protests, demonstrations and other large public gatherings
• monitor local media for possible unrest
• don't visit affected areas

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. 

More information:

• Terrorism

Businesses may not meet Australian safety or maintenance standards, including transport and tour operators, as well as adventure and water sports providers. Research providers carefully, follow all safety instructions, and ensure activities and services are appropriate for your needs, abilities and experience. Don't assume your travel insurance covers adventure or high-risk activities. Check your policy carefully, as you may not be covered for medical treatment, evacuation or other costs.

Swimming safety

Take care when swimming at beaches, especially those with outlying coral reefs. The Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcanic eruption and tsunami has led to debris in the sand and water. This includes glass, wood, tiles and more. Take extra care when swimming.

Strong rips can occur where there's a break in the reef. This makes it dangerous for swimmers and surfers. People have drowned.

Ask locals about danger spots before swimming.

Tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This applies to:

• whale swimming and dive companies
• adventure tour companies
• fishing charters
• offshore surfing charters

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• don't travel on an overloaded vessel
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

More information: 

• Water safety 

Volcanos

Tonga has numerous volcanoes, and explosive eruptions can happen at any time. 

Home Reef Volcano last erupted in July 2024. The volcano activity poses low risk to residents of Vava’u and Ha’apai Island groups. Mariners are advised to stay at least 5kms from the volcano. 

Parts of Tonga are recovering from the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcanic eruption and tsunami which flooded parts of Tongatapu and other nearby islands in January 2022. 

Volcanoes and earthquakes can cause damage to communications in the outer islands at short notice, including the Vava'u and Ha'apai groups. 

Monitor media for the latest developments and follow the instructions of local authorities. See the Government of Tonga website and Facebook page.

Tsunamis

Tsunamis can happen due to the high number of earthquakes and the presence of volcanoes. A destructive tsunami can arrive within 20 minutes of a nearby tremor or earthquake. The Government has a well-tested public alert system.

To receive tsunami alerts, register with the:

• International Tsunami Information Center
• Global Disaster Alert and Co-ordination System

If you're near the coast, move to high ground immediately and follow designated tsunami evacuation routes and public announcements. You should move if local authorities advise so, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings, such as alarms or sirens.

Once on high ground, monitor local media and the Tonga Meteorological Service.

Earthquakes

Tonga experiences earthquakes. 

Get to know the earthquake safety measures for each place you stay and visit. Ask your hotel or host for advice. 

If there's an earthquake:

• consider tsunami risks
• expect aftershocks and travel delays
• reconfirm travel plans with agents and tour operators

More information:

• National Earthquake Information Centre of the United States Geological Survey

Severe weather

Tonga can experience natural disasters and severe weather, such as cyclones, earthquakes and tsunamis.

During an emergency, the Tongan National Emergency Management Office provides updates on Radio 1 at frequency 1017AM.

If a natural disaster occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media and other sources
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in contact with your friends and family

If you're due to arrive after a natural disaster or during cyclone season, ask your tour operator or airline if it affects your travel plans.

More information:

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Tropical storms and cyclones

The cyclone season is usually from November to April. However, tropical storms and cyclones can happen throughout the year. This weather can bring on flooding, gale-force winds and disruptions to services.

Due to El Niño conditions, the Tonga Meteorological Service has forecast a higher-than-average number of tropical cyclones this coming season, some of which may be severe. 

The direction and strength of cyclones can change suddenly. If there's a cyclone or tropical storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly
• port access may be affected
• there may not be enough shelter available

If a cyclone or tropical storm is approaching:

• know the evacuation plan for your hotel or cruise ship
• identify your local shelter

Monitor alerts and advice from:

• Tonga Meteorological Service
• Joint Typhoon Warning Centre
• Fiji Meteorological Service
• World Meteorological Organisation

Stray and poorly controlled dogs are common. Dog attacks on people in suburban and other areas can occur.

Don't approach or touch dogs. Be mindful of dogs if walking or exercising, and consider carrying a stick for increased protection.

Also be careful driving, as dogs and pigs are often on the road. 

We don't provide a comprehensive list of health risks, diseases or outbreaks for every destination. Before you travel, check the latest health advice from the Australian Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Insect-borne diseases

Insect-borne disease outbreaks occur, especially during the wet season. Diseases include:

• dengue
• chikungunya
• zika virus

Mosquitos that carry these diseases are active throughout the day and at night. Mosquito repellent is available at most convenience stores and pharmacies.

The Australian Department of Health and Aged Care's bulletin explains how to minimise the risk of Zika virus. There's no vaccination for it.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care recommends you:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor
• defer non-essential travel to affected areas

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get medical advice if you develop a fever, muscle pain, a rash or a bad headache.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• tuberculosis
• typhoid
• filariasis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• only drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food

Get medical advice if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Fish poisoning

Eating reef fish can result in ciguatera poisoning. Ciguatera is a naturally occurring seafood toxin.

Other risks include:

• scombroid (histamine fish poisoning)
• toxins in shellfish

Get urgent medical help if you suspect poisoning.

There’s no agreement between Australia and Tonga for free healthcare. Tourists must pay for all medical care, even if they need to stay in hospital or be evacuated. This can be very expensive. Make sure your travel insurance covers you. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs and can't guarantee your access to hospitals and other health services.

Hospital and medical facilities are limited throughout Tonga, with access to specialist care and medical facilities particularly constrained in the outer islands. Plan accordingly and ensure you have appropriate travel insurance and any necessary medications.

If you become ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to Australia or New Zealand, even for minor medical issues.

Evacuations on a Sunday are difficult to arrange because the airports don't operate. Special approval is required.

There are no decompression chambers. People with serious cases of decompression sickness are evacuated to the nearest treatment centre in New Zealand.

Registered dive companies carry basic treatment equipment to meet Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) standards.

Drugs

Tonga has strict rules on drugs. You can go to jail for possession of any quantity of illegal drugs. This includes if you are carrying drugs.

Sunday activities

Sabbath laws strictly limit Sunday activities including working (unless exempt), playing sport, listening to loud music and fishing. Social norms also mean public exercise and swimming is frowned upon and you could be approached by the police for doing so. Most businesses are closed except for some resorts and restaurants. Tours, including whale tours, and airports do not operate on a Sunday. 

Driving laws

It is illegal to leave the scene of a motor vehicle accident until police advise you can leave.

The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is 250 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath, which is equivalent to a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of around 0.05%. Police conduct roadside breath screening tests, and drivers who return a positive result may be required to undergo a further evidential breath test at a police station. 

Penalties vary depending on the recorded alcohol level and may include fines, court proceedings, and, in more serious cases, imprisonment. Individuals detained outside normal business hours may be held in police custody pending formal processing. 

Passengers should also be aware that consuming alcohol in a vehicle may attract penalties under local laws.

Other laws

The legal drinking age is 18 years old.

It's illegal to display the top half of your body in public for men, women and children over the age of 6 years old. Outside of hotels, swimming is typically done wearing rash vests or t-shirts. 

Sodomy is a criminal offence. Punishment is a maximum of 10 years in jail.

The death penalty still applies for murder and treason, though has not been used for some time. 

Males, under 16 years old, can be whipped if convicted of a crime.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Tonga recognises dual nationals.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Tonga is a highly religious country (predominantly Christian) as well as being an overall conservative country. Take care not to offend. This includes showing respect for the Royal Family. 

Dress modestly and avoid public affection to avoid unwanted attention. For example, women can wear bikinis at a resort and males can swim shirtless, but more modest swimwear is recommended at public beaches. Topless bathing is not accepted.

Most airlines will require proof of a return ticket or onward travel when entering Tonga. 

Visas

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the High Commission of the Kingdom of Tonga for details about visas, currency and customs rules. 

Validity

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

The local currency is the Tongan Pa'anga (TOP).

Change Australian dollars for TOP at local banks. These include ANZ and Bank South Pacific and Fexco Western Union Money Transfer outlets.

Remote island groups have limited banking services.

The main island of Tongatapu has ATMs, but they don't accept all Australian cards. Ask your bank if your card will work in Tonga.

Credit card fraud and card skimming occurs. Don't expose your PIN when using ATMs. Check your bank statements often.

More information:

• Scams that affect travellers

Boat travel

Local boats can be dangerous because they:

• can be overloaded
• are poorly maintained
• lack life-saving equipment

Operators may not provide life jackets on boats, rafts or kayaks. To protect yourself when travelling by boat between islands: 

• carry your own life jacket, and ideally an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) and a satellite telephone
• avoid single-engine boats
• travel in convoy
• register your departures and arrivals with a friend

Some cruise ships stop in Tonga.

More information:

• Travelling by boat
• Going on a cruise

Driving permit

You can drive on your Australian driver’s licence for up to 12 months after arriving in Tonga. After that, you'll need to get a local licence. To get a licence, contact the Ministry of Infrastructure.

Road travel

Driving in Tonga can be dangerous, especially at night due to:

• poor street lighting
• low-quality roads
• pedestrians and free-roaming animals on roads

Speeding, alcohol and drug-driving cause many road deaths.

Some road rules differ from those in Australia. Be aware that:

• if you're turning left, you must give way to oncoming vehicles that are turning right
• the speed limit in most locations is 50km/h
• the blood alcohol limit for driving is 0.05%
• if you're caught with alcohol on your breath when driving, you'll be taken for further testing
• if you have an accident while not wearing a seatbelt, you may not be covered by travel insurance

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Always wear a helmet. This applies to a motorbike or motor scooter. Hire companies don't always provide helmets.

If you plan to hire a motorcycle, check your travel insurance covers you.

Taxis

Be cautious when using taxis, particularly those hailed on the street, as scams and overcharging occur. Only use registered taxis and authorised limousines. Arrange these through your hotel. Ensure the meter is running or the correct fare is entered in the app. Take extra care around airports and at night. 

Public transport

There are limited public bus services on Tongatapu, including to connect communities on the eastern and western sides of the island with Nukuʻalofa. Bus services finish at 5pm and don't run on Sundays.

There are currently no public bus services operating to or from Fuaʻamotu International Airport. There are also only a small number of taxis available at the airport, which often run out. Arrange airport transfers through a hotel, taxi or host. 

Petty crime happens on buses. Take care of your belongings.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Air travel

Check Tonga's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• friends and family
• travel agent
• employer
• airline
• insurance provider

Fire and rescue services

Call 999.

Medical emergencies

Call 933 or go to a hospital.

Police

Call 922 or go to a local police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Nuku'alofa.

Australian High Commission, Nuku'alofa

82 Salote Road 
Nuku'alofa, Tonga
Phone: (+676) 20 400
Email: ahctonga@dfat.gov.au
Website: tonga.highcommission.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in Tonga
Twitter: @AustHCTonga

Check the Australian High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia