The recent report on International Visitors to Tonga, released by the Tonga Statistics Department, presents some intriguing findings. This is the first time such a report has been compiled, providing Tourism with crucial insights into visitors’ perceptions of Tonga.

Covering the period from January to April 2023, the report offers valuable insights into international visitors’ preferences, behaviours, experiences, and economic impact on Tonga. Key findings reveal high visitor satisfaction, particularly positive ratings for local friendliness and water-based attractions. The report also indicates a preference for hotels and lodges among surveyed visitors. Factors influencing their trips were predominantly word of mouth from family and friends.

The majority of visitors, accounting for 80% of all visitors, hail from New Zealand (52%), followed by Australia (18%), and then the USA (9%). The report confirms Tonga’s reputation as “the friendly islands,” with 46% of visitors agreeing that the most appealing aspect of Tonga is the friendliness of the local people. This is followed by scenery and landscape (30%) and activities and attractions (17%).