Neiafu Getting there & around

Getting around

Boat

For passenger transport to outer islands in the Vava'u Group, ask around close to 'Utukalongalu Market and at the jetty on the Old Harbour. You'll probably be able to strike a bargain with someone who's going your way. All offshore island resorts will provide boat transport for a fee.

Tide timetables and daily weather reports are posted at the Mermaid and Moorings.

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Car & motorcycle

Car

Tongan driving licences are available from the Police Station. Taxi drivers will often hire out their vehicles for a negotiable fee of around T$55 to T$65 per day (advice from experience: check the brakes!).

JL Rental Car (71128; Kovana Rd) has a few rental cars for T$65 per day.

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Bus & tram

Bus

Buses run from Sailoame and 'Utakalongalu Markets to most parts of Vava'u and connected islands, leaving when full. They usually make the run into town in the morning and return in the afternoon, so they're not very convenient for day trips from town.

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Local transport

Taxi

You'll find that taxi drivers often declare they have absolutely no change, so be sure to ensure you have enough pa'anga in smaller denominations (there's little likelihood the driver will return with your change). Taxis charge anywhere up to T$3 around Neiafu, T$10 to 'Ano and Hinakauea Beaches, T$12 to the airport, T$12 to Keitahi Beach and 'Utula'aina Point, and T$14 for a fare to Talihau village.

Taxi companies in Neiafu:

Issac(12261) Minibus.

JV Taxi & Rental Cars (70136, 71136; Fafafehi Rd)

Liviela (70240; Fafafehi Rd)

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Bicycle

Vava'u is hilly, but fairly manageable by bicycle. Adventure Backpackers hires out good bikes (half/full day T$13/20) and the Friendly Islands Kayak Company runs mountain-bike tours.

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