The ISlands
Tonga consists of 176 islands. 52 of the islands are inhabited. The others are full of bushland and beaches. Within these 52 inhabited islands, there are may different townships and tribes living on the islands. Each inhabited island choses which traditions of the ancient Tongan culture they wish to bring into their life and families, such as the marriage ritual.
The islands have been subcategorised into five divisions.
'Eua
This set of islands consists of two districts, 'Eua Motu'a and 'Eua Niuafo'ou. 'Eua Motu'a consists of six villages and 'Eua Motu'a has nine.
The islands have been subcategorised into five divisions.
'Eua
This set of islands consists of two districts, 'Eua Motu'a and 'Eua Niuafo'ou. 'Eua Motu'a consists of six villages and 'Eua Motu'a has nine.
Ha'apai
This section consists of 51 islands of which 17 inhabited.
This section consists of 51 islands of which 17 inhabited.
Niuas
Consists of three islands.
Consists of three islands.
Tongatapu
This is the main island of Tonga which holds 70.5% of the population. It is the centre for government and trade. It also holds the Tongan capitol, Nuku'alofa.
This is the main island of Tonga which holds 70.5% of the population. It is the centre for government and trade. It also holds the Tongan capitol, Nuku'alofa.
Vava'ua
Consists of one main island which holds Tonga's second largest populated city, Nieafu.
Consists of one main island which holds Tonga's second largest populated city, Nieafu.
As each island is separate, each consists of its own traditions and family values. They have their own expectations and specific elements of the Tongan culture which are embraced more than others. Most of the the remote islands incorporate the majority of the traditions but more Westernised islands such as Tongatapu and Vava'ua. Religion is also key in Tonga, with 37.3% of the population being apart of the Free Wesleyan Church and 16.8% being apart of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. This also creates diversity within households and islands. Religious beliefs can separate and segregate people, especially on Sundays. No shops are open on Sundays and it is expected to attend a church service that day. The Tongan society is collective, meaning each family helps out its own members and other families. "A Tongan is wealthy in what he or she gives away." (Shumway, Tongan Saints: Legacy of Faith, pg 10)