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Outlying Islands
HA’APAI GROUP: This group of 68 small islands forms the geological and geographical centre of Tonga and is characterised by white sandy beaches, pristine water and spectacular coral reefs. The group’s main island, also named Ha’apai, has the quaint old town of Pangai as its centre. Most of the 68 islands are small, low-lying coral atolls, the exception being the volcanic islands of Tofua (whose volcano is still active) and the extinct Kao to the West. The famous mutiny on the HMS Bounty in 1789 is said to have taken place in the waters surrounding these islands and it was from here that Captain William Bligh and his loyal men began their epic 6500km (4063-mile) journey to Timor – in a rowing boat. Captain James Cook used these islands as a place of rest and relaxation, making stopovers at Nomuka in 1774 and 1777 and visiting Lifuka in 1783. During April, a week-long festival culminates with the crowning of the local beauty queen.
In 1995, the entire Ha’apai group was declared a Conservation Area with a view to protect the fragile ecosystems and coral reefs.
VAVA'U GROUP: Lying 240km (150 miles) north of Tongatapu, this cluster of 50 or so thickly wooded islands has one hotel, one motel, one beach resort and four guest-houses. There is a daily one-hour flight from the capital and a weekly ferry service; private cruisers and ferries also operate from the harbour at Neiafu, the main town. There is excellent diving, with visibility often as much as 30m (100ft). Other attractions include the Fangatongo Royal Residence, the view from Mount Talau and Sailoame Market in Neiafu.
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