• The Kingdom of Tonga lies between Samoa and New Zealand just west of the International Dateline. The world's day begins in Tonga. The country consists of four island groups: Tongatapu, Eua, the Haapai Group and Vavau. Tonga's capital is named Nukualofa.

  In March 2009, an underwater volcano near the volcanic islands Hunga Tonga and Hunga Ha'apai erupted, causing steam and ash to shoot up high in the air in over the ocean. A few days later, a 7.9 earthquake occurred about 130 miles from the capital Nuku'alofa. A tsunami warning was issued because an earthquake of such magnitude could cause a major tsunami.USGS: Magnitude 7.9 Tonga Region Reuters AlertNet: Warning of possible S. Pacific tsunami after quake (March 19, 2009)

• Fast Facts

  1. Capital: Nukualofa
  2. Population: About 100,000
  3. Government: Constitutional monarchy
  4. Currency: Pa'anga
  5. Language: Tongan, English
  6. Nicknamed "The Friendly Islands"
  7. West of the International Dateline
  8. Four island groups: Tongatapu, Eua, the Haapai Group and Vavau
  9. United into a kingdom in 1845
  10. Became a constitutional monarchy in 1875
  11. Became a British protectorate in 1900, withdrew from the protectorate in 1970

• Culture

  Tonga's Polynesian culture is evident in the traditional dress of the people, consisting of huge mats wrapped around their waists. The Tongans excel in weaving and woodcarving, and their singing and dancing are renowned.

• Cities and Villages

  Tonga's capital, Nukualofa, is on Tongatapu, an uplifted atoll with ocean cliffs on the south and a broad lagoon on the north. Vavau is one of the most popular yachting centers in the South Pacific with many excellent anchorages.

• Related Pages on Mahalo

  Tonga Volcano | New Zealand | Tonga Earthquake

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