New Member for Treasures of the South Pacific

Tonga is making a bold return to the tourism spotlight, sending a clear message to the travel trade: the Kingdom is open for business—and it’s serious about growth.

This May, Tonga will showcase its tourism offering at the South Pacific Tourism Exchange, where it will meet with global wholesalers, Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), and trade partners in a bid to bolster international relationships and boost visitation.

As part of its renewed focus, the Tonga Tourism Association has joined the Treasures of the South Pacific—a prominent collective of national tourism offices dedicated to promoting the region across Australia and New Zealand. Through this alliance, Tonga will be featured in two major roadshows throughout 2025, spanning eight cities and connecting with more than 1,000 retail travel agents.

And that’s not all. In a strategic move to further raise its profile among frontline sellers, Tonga will partner with the Solomon Islands for a joint roadshow later this year, with stops planned for Auckland, Sydney, and Brisbane. The aim is to foster stronger relationships with travel agents and ensure Tonga remains front-of-mind when clients ask for authentic South Pacific getaways.

“We are re-establishing Tonga as a must-sell destination for holidaymakers looking for authentic Pacific experiences,” said Richard Skewes, Australia/New Zealand Trade Manager for the Tonga Tourism Association. “This isn’t just about visibility—it’s about equipping the industry with the tools and knowledge they need to sell Tonga confidently and correctly.”

In support of this, the Tonga Tourism Association is developing a dedicated online training portal for agents, set to launch soon. The platform will offer in-depth knowledge on everything from travel access and accommodation options to cultural highlights and unique experiences, helping agents tailor the perfect Tongan holiday for their clients.

“Tonga’s tourism story is one of resilience, richness, and renewed focus,” added Skewes. “We’re not just back—we’re back with purpose, passion, and the kind of presence that drives bookings.”