The Kingdom of Tonga...

Tonga is a pleasant Kingdom in the South seas, situated directly on the date line. Here, the new day begins. Only a few of the total of 175 islands are inhabited. Most of the 115,000 inhabitants live on the main island Tongatapu.

Tonga consists of three main groups of islands: In the South Tonga Tapu with it's capital Nuku'alofa, in the centre the Ha'apai group with wonderful sandy beaches, and in the North the Vavau group, which is much enjoyed by sailors for its protected bays.

King Taufa'ahau IV is the supreme governmental authority. He is also well known in Western countries as a result of his various journeys. In Tonga, which strictly follows Christian traditions, public life ceases on Sundays. All the churches are crowded and visitors are always welcome. In Tonga, tourism is still in its infancy. The main sources of income are agriculture and fishery in addition to emigrants from Tonga who supply their relatives with money and goods.

Although traffic is ever increasing in the small capital Nuku'alofa and business pulsates within modest limits, time passes more slowly in Ha'apai. Life is calm and contemplative. In Ha'apai, daily services (except Sundays) are provided by small aeroplanes of the Tongan airlines.

Matafonua Lodge

Matafonua Lodge is the Ha'apai's newest accomodation. Located on beautiful Foa Island it is only 400 metres from our base at the Sandy Beach Resort. Set amongst bush and palm trees and surrounded on 3 sides by crystal clear water it is perfect for divers, families and budget travellers.

Matafonua Lodge is located right at the northern end of Foa Island. On one side is the stunning "Sandy Beach". On the other is the reef lagoon and at the end of the island is a channel separating the lodge from Nuku Namu Island. Matafonua consists of 10 traditional style fales, 8 twin share or double and 2 family fales. Each fale is raised off the ground giving superb views from the balcony. Fales are fitted with twin or double beds, mosquito nets, 24 hour, 240v power, deck chairs and tables.

Toilet and shower facilities are shared and the lodge has its own bar and restaurant overlooking the reef pass.

Twin share or double fales are $US70 per night including continental breakfast. Family fales are just a little more.

We are happy to make your booking for free of charge or you can contact Matafonua directly at www.matafonua.com or email: info@matafonua.com

The Sandy Beach Resort

This small bungalow resort is situated on Foa Island in the Ha'apai group of islands. Here, you will find the most wonderful white sandy beaches in Tonga.

This is the ideal place for tourists who seek a calm paradise with sophistication and want to enjoy unspoilt nature. Jurgen offers trips in canoes or on horseback, and is doing bushwalks with the guests. On Sundays, guests are welcome to join him on his way to church. . From time to time a floor show with traditional dances is organised. Wonderful sunsets with a view on the Kao volcano, soft classical music and an excellent dinner bring the day to a peaceful end. 12 bungalows called "Fale" are situated directly on the white sandy beach. Even at low tide, bathing is possible. The small coral reefs in the lagoon invite one to snorkel and are ideal for beginners.

All rooms are comfortably and stylishly furnished. The offer includes double-bed rooms or rooms with two separate beds. The bungalows are designed so that air conditioning systems are superfluous. Each room has a terrace facing the sea, WC and shower with hot and cold water, ceiling fan, refrigerator and tea and coffee making facilities are standard. The rooms are serviced daily, and towels are also changed every day.

The airport of Ha'apai is situated on the Lifuka island which is linked to the Foa island by a dyke. The distance from the airport to Sandy Beach Resort is about 15 minutes by car. In most cases, Jüurgen travels to the airport to collect his guests. In Tonga, e-mail does not always work. If you do not get an answer to your enquiry within a few days, please send a fax to +676-60 600

How to get to Tonga:

There are daily flights from Auckland with Air New Zealand (flight time 3 hours). There are also several flights per week with Air Pacific and Pacific Blue. Please check with your travel agent for the best options from your location. The scenic flight above the coral islands and the deep blue sea from Nukua'lofa to Ha'apai lasts 40 short minutes and costs about $T290

Climate Tonga has a relatively mild climate. In winter (July - September), temperatures are between 23 and 30°C. Winter is the drier season with south east trade winds. In summer (December - April), temperatures are between 25 and 33°C. Humidity increases, and rainfalls are likely to occur. Tonga is a point at which hurricanes arise, especially between December and April. Heavy storms are likely to occur every 20 years or so. An effective early-warning system is installed.

Language:
 Tongan and English are the official languages.

Currency:
 The currency is the Tonga Dollar (Pa'anga). The exchange rate (Mar 2007) is T$ 1,00 =US$ 0.47

Airport fees:
 When leaving, a fee of 25 T$ is charged.

Health:
 No inoculations are prescribed. Malaria does not exist.

Voltage:
 240V / 60 Hz, the same adapter is used as for Australia and New Zealand.