Tonga plans tourism growth

The Pacific island nation of Tonga has announced plans to triple its current tourism budget and expand tourism infrastructure so it can increase visitor capacity.

With 15,000 overseas visitors in the Tongan capital Nuku’alofa last week for the coronation of Tonga’s new king, Tupou VI, tourism was at full capacity.

As a result, Tonga’s Ministry of Tourism sees that increasing visitor numbers can be a major factor in boosting economic growth.

Ministry of Tourism spokesperson Sione Moala Mafi explained that the increase of the budget will be sought through aid donors and foreign investors, stating “we are trying to open up the airlinks and even to attract investors.

“We don’t have to build hotels ourselves (as) we can attract investors to build (them) for us.

“We are (also) looking at reclaiming some areas in the front harbour of Nuku’alofa and so that will be most appropriate (areas) for some of the five 5 star hotels to be built.” 

For more information visit the Tonga Tourism Authority website at www.tongaholiday.com

20th August 2014 - NEW ZEALAND TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE UPGRADE OF TONGA’S TEUFAIVA STADIUM