I first visited Tonga in 1976 with my wife Linda, aboard our yacht Fantasia. Foremost among my memories from that experience is how under-developed the region was, the magnificent sheltered cruising around Vava’u and the easy nature of the Tongan people. Their closeness to the land and sea is matched by a warm devotion to family and traditional values.
Having visited Vava’u in recent times, it is comforting to realize how little has changed. Yes, there are a few more vehicles on the roads, greater development along the waterfront of Neiafu and the introduction of cell phones and the Internet. Yet the astonishing natural beauty of the place and pleasing nature of the people remain untouched.
I am committed to The Vaipua Sanctuary development because of my love for Polynesia, its people and climate. Tonga offers easy, direct access from New Zealand and Australia. Locals speak English and the cost of living is balanced by the quality of life. It is hugely appealing.
Unparalleled access and the wide range of nautical activities in Vava’u are second to none. Prevailing SE trade winds and ocean swells are protected by natural barriers. The entire archipelago can be reached by small boat. Those looking for a 5-star holiday should search elsewhere. There are no destination resorts with golf courses and swimming pools in this part of the Pacific.
However, if you are attracted to a superb nautical environment, an unspoiled peaceful location and the company of fascinating people, you should take a closer look at the Vaipua Sanctuary.
Win Charlebois
The dry season runs from April through November with gentle trades providing cool breezes and comfortable evenings. Temperatures range between 22 - 27C during the day and 18 - 22C at night.
From December through March the weather is warmer and more humid. Temperatures average between 25 and 29C during the day with slight evening cooling.
Tonga exports fruit, vegetables, fish and other marine products. The country produces some manufactured goods and recently added the growth of royal coffee and vanilla for export.
Tourism is a vital industry with more than 25,000
non-business visitors welcomed each year. Vava’u is seen as the critical component for expanded tourism.The islands are under-developed,
under-populated and largely un-discovered.
Throughout the kingdom, ownership of property is limited to the monarchy, noble families and tribal holdings.
Unit title legislation allows local and foreign ownership of homes, businesses, churches and infrastructure.
Irrevocable long term leases protect assets built on
leasehold land. Rights of renewal under
reasonable terms are a feature
of property development.
Air New Zealand and Pacific Blue service Tonga from Auckland with several flights weekly. Qantas connects with Virgin Blue through Sydney and via the Auckland gateway from anywhere in Australia. Polynesian Air links Tonga with a variety of South Pacific destinations.
Multiple daily flights between Tongatapu and Vava’u are provided by Chathams Pacific Airline, a NZ owned carrier. For rustic travellers and those who are very young at heart, a twice-weekly, overnight ferry is also available.