Tonga

Revised on 8 February 2007

There is some risk to your safety in Tonga and we advise caution. On 16 November 2006, politically-motivated violence broke out in central Nuku’alofa. Buildings were set alight and shops were looted by drunken mobs. Six people lost their lives in the violence and 80% of the central business district was damaged or destroyed by arson. Although the situation in Nuku’alofa has been calm since then, a state of emergency is in place until 16 February and movement around the central business district has been restricted.

We advise New Zealanders to exercise caution in Nuku’alofa. Demonstrations and large gatherings should be avoided as they can turn violent with little warning. If the situation in Nuku’alofa does deteriorate, you are advised to follow the advice of the local authorities and monitor the media and local information sources.

Source: http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/countries/tonga.shtml - 8 Feb 07