History of New Zealand–Tonga relations in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 2, 2025

New Zealand and Tonga share a close and enduring relationship, rooted in historical ties and contemporary cooperation. Both countries are members of the Commonwealth of Nations, the Pacific Islands Forum, and the United Nations. New Zealand is a significant development partner for Tonga, providing assistance in areas such as education, health, infrastructure, and renewable energy. People-to-people links are strong, with many Tongans residing in New Zealand, contributing to cultural exchange and economic ties. The two countries also collaborate on regional security issues and share common interests in promoting stability and prosperity in the Pacific region.

1918: Spanish Flu Pandemic

In 1918, the Spanish flu pandemic was brought to Tonga by a ship from New Zealand, causing the deaths of approximately 1,800 Tongans, which reflected a mortality rate of about eight percent.

1947: New Zealand Independence

In 1947, New Zealand effectively became an independent nation from the United Kingdom with the Statute of Westminster Adoption Act.

1967: Prime Minister's Visit to Tonga

In 1967, New Zealand Prime Minister Keith Holyoake visited Tonga for the coronation of Tongan King Tāufaʻāhau Tupou IV.

June 1970: Tonga's Independence and Diplomatic Relations

In June 1970, Tonga ceased to be a protected state by the United Kingdom, and New Zealand and Tonga established diplomatic relations that same year.

1974: New Zealand Opens High Commission in Nuku'alofa

In 1974, New Zealand opened a resident high commission in Nuku'alofa, Tonga.

2008: Prime Minister Clark Attends Coronation

In 2008, New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark attended the coronation of Tongan King George Tupou V.

2009: Tonga Opens High Commission in Wellington

In 2009, Tonga opened its first high commission in Wellington, New Zealand.

2012: Closure of Tongan High Commission in Wellington

In 2012, Tonga closed its high commission in Wellington, New Zealand due to financial reasons.

March 2018: Pacific Mission to Tonga and Recovery Package Announcement

In March 2018, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Foreign Minister Winston Peters led a Pacific Mission to Tonga, during which the Prime Minister announced a $10 million recovery package for those affected by Cyclone Gita.

March 2019: Tongan King and Queen Visit New Zealand

In March 2019, Tongan King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipauʻu Tukuʻaho visited New Zealand.

2020: 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations

In 2020, New Zealand and Tonga celebrated 50 years of diplomatic relations.

2023: Trade Totals Between Nations

In 2023, trade between New Zealand and Tonga totaled $66.77 million United States dollars. New Zealand's main exports to Tonga include: travel services, mechanical machinery, dairy products, wood and meat. Tonga's main exports to New Zealand include: travel services, vegetables, fruit and nuts.

April 2025: NZ Delegation to Tonga

In April 2025, New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters led a delegation to Tonga and met with Tongan Prime Minister ‘Aisake Valu Eke and his cabinet to reaffirm bilateral relations particularly in the areas of maritime safety, agricultural research, defence and law enforcement.

July 2025: Visa Changes Announced

In July 2025, it was announced that New Zealand would grant multiple entry visas to visitors from Pacific Islands Forum countries including Tonga. Nationals from Forum countries on temporary Australian visas would be able to visit New Zealand for up to three months without requiring a visa.