List of Tonga Newspapers: English & Tongan Language News Sources
Tonga offers a variety of newspapers catering to both English and Tongan-speaking audiences. Leading English-language publications like Tonga Daily News and Matangi Tonga provide comprehensive coverage of local and international news, politics, and culture.
For Tongan-language readers, Ko e Kalonikali Tonga and Taimi o Tonga deliver in-depth reporting on community events and national affairs. These Tongan newspapers play a vital role in keeping residents informed while preserving the native language.
Whether you prefer English or Tongan, Tonga’s media landscape ensures access to reliable news. Stay updated with the latest headlines by following these trusted Tonga newspaper sources, which balance tradition and modern journalism for an engaging reader experience.
Table of Contents:
Tonga and Pacific English-Language Publications
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Matangi Tonga
Founded in 1995 in Nuku'alofa, Matangi Tonga is Tonga's leading independent news website, known for its investigative journalism and coverage of politics, royalty, and regional affairs. It's respected for its balanced reporting in a challenging media environment.
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Tonga Daily News
Launched in 2012, this digital platform provides breaking news, sports updates, and business reports with a focus on Tongan diaspora communities. It's particularly known for its coverage of rugby and local controversies.
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Kaniva Tonga
Established in 2013, Kaniva Tonga offers bilingual (English/Tongan) news with special emphasis on Tongan communities in New Zealand, Australia, and the U.S. It’s recognized for its diaspora-focused content and cultural preservation efforts.
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TBC Tonga
Tonga Broadcasting Commission's official site (founded 1961) provides news bulletins, royal family updates, and emergency broadcasts. As the state broadcaster, it's the primary source for official government announcements.
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FM87.5 Tonga
A popular radio station (est. 2000) with a strong online presence, known for its talk shows and political commentary that often challenges government perspectives.
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Talaki Newspaper
A weekly print and digital publication (est. 2018) focusing on in-depth features about Tongan culture, traditions, and social issues. It's particularly popular among older demographics.
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Tonga Now
Launched in 2015, this tourism-focused platform highlights Tonga's whale watching, resorts, and cultural events while also covering general news. It's the go-to source for visitor information.
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RNZ Pacific Tonga
Radio New Zealand's Tonga section provides regional perspectives on Tongan affairs, with special attention to climate change and political developments affecting the kingdom.
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Pacific Media Network Tonga
Auckland-based service (est. 2008) covering Tongan community news in New Zealand and its connections to the homeland, particularly migration issues.
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Tonga Business Journal
The only dedicated business publication (est. 2016) in Tonga, covering economic policies, trade, and investment opportunities in the kingdom.
Tongan-Language Publications
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Ko e Kalonikali Tonga
Tonga's oldest Tongan-language newspaper (est. 1876), published by the Free Wesleyan Church with religious content and moral commentary alongside general news.
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Taimi Media Network
A controversial but popular Tongan-language outlet (est. 1989) known for its bold political reporting and frequent clashes with government censorship.
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Laoa Newspaper
Government-affiliated Tongan weekly (est. 1992) that publishes official notices, parliamentary reports, and pro-establishment commentary.
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Radio Tonga 2
TBC's Tongan-language service (est. 1975) broadcasting traditional music, oral histories, and village news throughout the island groups.
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Fasi moe Afi
A satirical Tongan-language online publication (est. 2015) using humor and allegory to comment on social and political issues.
Regional & Niche Publications
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Vava'u Press
The only dedicated news source (est. 2010) for Tonga's northern islands, covering tourism, fishing, and local governance issues.
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Ha'apai Today
Community-run Facebook page (est. 2016) sharing news, lost-and-found notices, and weather alerts for the Ha'apai group.
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Eua Island News
Hyperlocal blog (est. 2018) documenting daily life, conservation efforts, and transport issues on Tonga's southernmost inhabited island.
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Tonga Sports Network
Dedicated to rugby, boxing, and Olympic sports (est. 2014), with profiles of Tongan athletes competing domestically and internationally.
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Tonga Health Bulletin
Ministry of Health publication (est. 2009) providing updates on diseases, nutrition programs, and hospital services across the islands.