The Niuas

Across the North of the Kingdom of Tonga’s lie the Niuas – the two volcanic islands of Niuatoputapu and Niuafo’ou lie.

Niuatoputapu lies about 240kms (144 mis) north of Vava’u and consists of an area of 18sq km with a population of about 1400. Far away from Nuku’alofa, tradition is still a way of life here with conservative dressing and behavior.

The island is surrounded by magnificent white beaches, with the most beautiful located on the northwest side of the main island.

Niuafo’ou is the northernmost island in the Kingdom of Tonga. Almost 350 miles separate Niuafo’ou from Tonga’s main island of Tongatapu; while Samoa (200 miles) and Fiji (300 miles) are a shorter distance away.

Niuafo’ou is the tip of an underwater volcano, which was created by sub-oceanic eruptions many years ago. The center of the island is dominated by Vai Lahi, a large lake measuring some 5kms (3 mis) across and up to 84m (277 ft.) deep. On the island’s south and west, extensive, blackish grey fields of lava bear witness to Niuafo’ou volcanic history.

Although it can be difficult to get to, traditional Tongan customs and culture still thrive in this isolated group, offering visitors the cultural experience of a lifetime.