Tonga

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)

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.

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.