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THINGS TO SEE AND DO
The Ha'apai Group of islands in the Kingdom of Tonga are situated between the main island of Tongatapu and the Vav'au group further north. For the independent traveller who seeks to go back in time, enjoys walking, warmth and sunshine, likes riding a horse, going fishing, getting to know local people and is searching for peace, quietness and tranquility, then a visit to the Ha'apai Islands will be a most rewarding experience.
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.
Lifuka, and its northern neighbour Foa, which are linked by a causeway, are the two largest islands in the main Ha'apai group. Pangai, on Lifuka Island, is the administrative centre where the various government offices, the Bank of Tonga, Royal Tonga Airlines office, the Tonga Visitors Bureau and several stores are located. The wharf at Pangai is the centre of most activity on the days that the MV Olovahacalls in.
The famous mutiny on the HMS Bounty in 1789 is said to have taken place in the waters surrounding these islands, near the island of Tofua in 1789 - winning the Ha'apai Group a place in world history. Captain James Cook made stopovers at Nomuka and Lifuka during the late 18th century. Lifuka was the birthplace of christianity in Tonga following the baptism in 1831 by Methodis missionaries of the Chief Taufa'ahau, who was to become King George I. This led to the unification of all the Tonga Islands, established the Kingdom and the royal line which remains today.
During the month of April, there is a a week-long festival culminating with the crowning of the local beauty queen.
The entire Ha'apai group was declared a Conservation Area in 1995, its aim to protect the fragile ecosystems and coral reefs.
Ha'apai is a friendly, relaxing environment for the visitor who mostly wants to relax. If you are seeking a place of tranquility, an unhurried pace indicative of how most of the South Seas once was, then this is the place for you!
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