Rainwater harvesting systems repaired and upgraded
Rainwater harvesting systems across Hihifo, Vaipoa, Falehau and Tafahi in Niuatoputapu have been repaired, upgraded and reconnected, significantly improving access to safe drinking water. A rainwater harvesting survey has also scoped households on three atoll islands in the Vava'u Group.
Niuatoputapu repair programme completed
Practical completion was achieved for repair and upgrade works in Niuatoputapu, delivering reliable drinking water for communities and public facilities, including Niuatoputapu High School, Hihifo Government Primary School, the Early Childhood School, Likamonu Hospital, community halls and evacuation centres, and more than 120 households.
Water quality testing and training delivered
Training of Trainers and water quality testing programmes were delivered in Ha'apai, building local capacity to monitor and manage drinking water quality.
Outer island assessments underway
Verification, scoping and technical assessments have been completed for Lofanga, Kotu, Uiha and Felemea, informing the next phase of investment in Ha'apai.
Drought resilience actions supported
The project has supported communities responding to drought risk, particularly following Tonga's El Niño declaration and emerging drought conditions in Ha'apai. During the Super El Niño (June 2026 – July 2027), the NRD Water and Project Team will support water scarcity management and resilience across all of Tonga's outer islands.
“Having 24 hour access to running water for drinking and other usages at her home was like a dream, but now the project has made it a reality.”Soana Kilioni, Falehau, Niuatoputapu
