Asia and Oceania

• Travel Summary
• Safety and security
• Local laws and customs
• Entry requirements

• Health
• Natural disasters
• General
 

Travel Summary

• A Tsunami hit the South Pacific region on 30 September 2009 (local time). The Tongan Island of Niuatoputapu has been affected and aftershocks are possible. There are reports of deaths and injuries in addition to property damage as a result of the tsunami. We advise against all but essential travel to the affected area. Please see the Natural Disasters section for further details.
  
  
• There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) in Tonga. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any further developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on this website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu is available on the UK Department of Health website at: www.dh.gov.uk.
  
  
• Since politically motivated rioting took place in Nuku'alofa in November 2006 emergency regulations have prevented public meetings within prescribed areas of Nuku’alofa.  The potential for violence remains. You should avoid large crowds, political gatherings and demonstrations. See the Political Situation of this advice for more details.
  
  
• There is no British consular representation in Tonga. Routine consular matters are covered by the British High Commission in Suva, but in an emergency the New Zealand High Commission in Nuku'alofa can be contacted.    See the General (Consular Representation) section of this advice for more details.  Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism in Tonga.  But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• Tropical cyclones are common in Tonga from the beginning of November until the end of April.  On 5 April 2009 Tropical Cyclone Lin passed over Tonga, causing widespread flooding and damage to power lines and buildings.  See the Natural Disasters section of this advice and Tropical cyclones for more details.
  
  
• Most visits to Tonga are trouble free. The crime rate is relatively low. However, petty crime and theft do take place. Crimes against persons, although rare, can occur. You should remain vigilant, especially at night.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling.  You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake.  See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.