Tonga Reopens Borders Welcoming Visitors with Hugs and Tears

Families embraced and cried tears of joy on Monday at Tonga's airport as the nation opened its borders for the first time since COVID-19 restrictions began. This significant moment brought together loved ones who had been separated for years, marking a moment of collective relief and happiness.

Since closing its borders in March 2020, Tonga has seen over 3,000 citizens stranded abroad due to stringent entry regulations. The lifting of restrictions enables not just the return of Tongans but also tourists, heralding a new chapter for the community.

The first flight to arrive was an Air New Zealand service from Auckland, bringing approximately 200 passengers, many of whom were welcomed with colorful garlands and music at the Fua'amotu International Airport.

'It's good to be back,' expressed 'Etu Palu, who was eager to reconnect with his family, echoing sentiments shared by other passengers. 'It’s good to visit the motherland,' added his mother, Finau Palu.

Siosaia Filikitonga, another returning visitor, expressed his emotional relief, stating this was his first trip back to Tonga in over two years due to the pandemic. 'I am happy and emotional. Once Tonga announced the border reopening, I booked to come,' he told AFP.

Sione Moala Mafi, CEO of Tonga's Ministry of Tourism, emphasized the economic impact of this influx of visitors, noting that it provides a substantial boost to the local economy. He expressed gratitude for the reopening of borders, particularly for facilitating travel between Tonga and New Zealand.

With more flights anticipated later this week from both New Zealand and Australia, the tourism sector is poised for revitalization, though the government is taking a gradual approach to reopening. This includes limiting incoming flights in August and reviewing policies for September and October.

To ensure safety amid the ongoing pandemic, all incoming travelers must be fully vaccinated and present negative COVID-19 tests conducted prior to their journey, as well as after arriving.

Currently, Tonga is under an 'orange' alert level, indicating heightened vigilance, yet there are hopes for a transition to 'green' status soon. This will be reassessed at the end of the month.

Despite the excitement of reopening, the government has yet to permit yachts and superyachts, a decision met with disappointment from local tourism operators. David Hunt, owner of Super Yacht Services Tonga, noted that many larger vessels are eager to dock in Tonga, especially with high demand in the Pacific due to global uncertainties.

Moala Mafi confirmed that no decision regarding yachts in Tongan waters has been reached, indicating that discussions are ongoing as the tourism framework continues to evolve.