Pacific Tourism Organisation engages with Vavaʻu Leadership in Tonga Ahead of 2025 Meetings

In January, the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker joined SPTO Deputy Board Director and Ministry of Tourism in Tonga Chief Executive Officer Viliami Takau, in paying a courtesy visit to the Governor of Vavaʻu, Lord Fakatulolo. The visit provided an opportunity to brief the Governor on the upcoming SPTO meetings scheduled for October 2025.

SPTO CEO Chris Cocker mentioned that Vavau’u was endorsed in 2024 by the Council of Tourism Ministers (COM) for the next Board of Directors Meeting, COM, Cruise Summit, and Pacific Sustainable Tourism Leaders Summit. Vava’u’ is also known for cruising yachting and whale watching for Tonga.

Mr Cocker shared the importance of engaging with traditional leaders and government representatives to ensure effective collaboration. “We deeply appreciate the opportunity to meet with Lord Fakatulolo and discuss the significance of the upcoming SPTO meetings. These engagements are vital in fostering strong partnerships and ensuring that our initiatives align with national and community priorities.”

In addition to the courtesy visit, SPTO representatives met with the owner of Puataukaunave Hotel and prominent businessman of Vava’u, Tomfa Paea, and Ministry of Tourism staff in Vavaʻu key accommodation operators in Vava’u to discuss plans for SPTO meetings to be hosted in Vava’u, 2025.

“Tourism remains a cornerstone of economic growth for the Pacific, and these discussions reinforce the commitment of all stakeholders to sustainable and strategic development,” said Mr. Cocker.

SPTO looks forward to continued collaboration with the Government of Tonga and tourism stakeholders in Vavau’u as preparations for the 2025 meetings progress.