That was the major finding from the Tonga International Visitor Survey (IVS), which provides a comprehensive snapshot of visitor behaviour, spending patterns, motivations and satisfaction levels.
With an average length of stay of 6.8 nights, visitors spent around $US148 (approx. $AU208) per person per day, reinforcing tourism’s role as a significant driver of local business activity.
The visitor profile shows that Tonga continues to attract a high proportion of first-time visitors, with 60 per cent visiting the country for the first time and nearly half travelling solo.
New Zealand remained Tonga’s largest source market, accounting for 35 per cent of visitors, followed by Australia at 19 per cent, the United States at 16 per cent and Europe at 14 per cent.
Holidays were the primary reason for travel at 49 per cent, followed by business travel at 21 per cent and visiting friends and relatives at 19 per cent.
Tongatapu remained the most visited destination, with 93 per cent of respondents spending time there, while Vava’u and Ha’apai attracted 16 per cent and four per cent respectively.
The findings show that visitors were strongly drawn to Tonga’s culture, natural environment and authentic island experience.
Nearly four out of five visitors indicated they would recommend Tonga to others, while more than 80 per cent said they would consider returning in the future.
“Reliable tourism data is fundamental to informed decision-making across the Pacific,” said Christopher Crocker, Chief Executive Officer, The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO).
“The Tonga IVS demonstrates how evidence can be used to strengthen destination planning, improve visitor experiences and support targeted investment.
“SPTO remains committed to working alongside Tonga and our member countries to build strong, nationally owned data systems that position Pacific destinations to compete confidently and sustainably in a changing global market.”
