The government has banned unauthorised entry to uninhabited Crown lands, including the remote ‘Ata Island.
Effective from 6 May 2025, the Ministry of Lands, Survey, Planning and Natural Resources announced that ‘Ata Island and similar uninhabited territories are off-limits without prior written approval.
Under Section 3 of Tonga’s Land Act, ‘Ata Island is classified as Crown Land, placing it under direct ministerial control. The island lies approximately 160 kilometres south-southwest of Tongatapu.
Tongan citizens must secure official permission before landing on or using the island for any purpose, including tourism, research, or filming. Foreign nationals face stricter rules: entering or using the land without a permit constitutes a criminal offence under Section 14 of the Land Act, punishable by fines, imprisonment, or deportation.
Foreign entities must also obtain environmental, immigration, and Cabinet approvals before accessing uninhabited Crown lands. The government warns that unauthorised visitors will be removed immediately and may face legal consequences.
The Ministry urges the public to report any breaches to its Nuku’alofa office.
This move aligns with Tonga’s broader efforts to safeguard its natural resources and biodiversity.
