Foreign Affairs Issues Updated Travel Advisory For Tonga
Revised on 18 November 2006
There is some risk to your safety in Tonga and we advise caution. On 16 November, politically-motivated violence broke
out in central Nuku’alofa. Buildings were set alight and shops were looted by drunken mobs.
We advise New Zealanders to avoid the downtown area of Nuku’alofa especially areas around government buildings. You
should also avoid demonstrations and large gatherings as the situation is unpredictable and violence could break out
with little warning. Although foreigners do not appear to be targets for the violence, it is possible you could get
caught up in violence directed at others. We recommend you follow the advice of the local authorities, and monitor the
media and local information sources.
The New Zealand Government has been working with the Tongan authorities to achieve the resumption of commercial air
services. Commercial flights will resume on Monday 20 November. The first Air New Zealand flight is scheduled to depart
from New Zealand (Auckland) at 0930 hours 20 November NZ time. Travellers should check onward travel plans with their
travel agent/airline and ensure they have appropriate insurance cover.
Telecommunications have also been disrupted.
New Zealanders visiting or resident in Tonga are encouraged to register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
online at http://www.safetravel.govt.nz.
See our regional advice for the Pacific.
New Zealand High Commission, Tonga
Contact details are
Street address: Corner Taufa’ahau and Salote Roads, Nuku’alofa, Tonga
Postal address: PO Box 830, Nuku’alofa, Tonga
Telephone +676 23122 Fax +676 23487
Email nzhcnuk@kalianet.to
Office hours Mon – Fri 0800 – 1230, 1300 - 1600 hrs
ends