St Joseph’s Cathedral

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A vision of colonial piety above Port of Refuge, St Joe's is Neiafu’s defining piece of archiecture. Inside, the hypercoloured crucifixion scene behind the altar is something to behold. The stretch of Fatafehi Rd below the cathedral is called Hala Lupe (Way of Doves), named for the mournful singing of the female prisoners (convicted adulterers) who constructed it.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Old Harbour

0.24 MILES

Head north on Tokongahahau Rd from the cathedral then turn east onto Naufahu Rd and you'll reach the low-key Old Harbour. It's much less developed than…

2. Mt Talau National Park

1.32 MILES

A flat-topped mountain looming behind Port of Refuge, 131m Mt Talau (Mo’unga Talau) is protected as part of Mt Talau National Park. To check it out, from…

3. ’Ano & Hinakauea Beaches

3.32 MILES

Near the southern end of Pangaimotu are these two beaut beaches backed by verdant vegetation, with sheltered waters, good snorkelling and a safe spot to…

4. Ark Gallery Vava'u

3.52 MILES

Paintings, prints, local arts and crafts...on a boat! If you're keen to visit, phone first, then take a taxi to ‘Ano Beach – you’ll be picked up there. Or…

6. ‘Ene’io Botanical Garden

5.08 MILES

Developed by Tonga's former Minister of Agriculture, these gardens are brimming with botany (550 different plant varieties!). Access is via guided tour:…