Nuku‘alofa, Tonga – October 31, 2025 – The Ports Authority Tonga (PAT) has officially commissioned the Queen Salote International Wharf (QSIW), a landmark development in Tonga’s maritime infrastructure and a cornerstone project in the modernization of Tonga’s port infrastructure. The historic milestone is a key step in enhancing the nation’s maritime connectivity and trade capacity across the Pacific.
(Photo above: His Majesty King Tupou VI officially opens the newly modernized Queen Salote International Wharf — photo courtesy of Australia in Tonga.)
The commissioning ceremony was held in the presence of His Majesty King Tupou VI, who served as Guest of Honour, symbolizing the national importance of the development to Tonga’s economic growth and global trade integration.
Strategic collaboration and international support
The event featured addresses from key partners — Mr. Scott Cummins, CEO of McConnell Constructors Ltd; Ms. Emma Veve, Director General of ADB Pacific Development; and H.E. Brek Batley, Australian High Commissioner — who each reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Tonga’s maritime infrastructure and regional connectivity.
The Queen Salote International Wharf upgrade is the flagship component of the Nuku‘alofa Port Upgrade Project (NPUP) — a USD 70 million investment co-financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP). The project was led by Ports Authority Tonga with Royal Haskoning DHV (Australia) as design consultant, and MCD Construction Ltd (New Zealand) as main contractor. Construction commenced in October 2022 and reached completion in October 2025.
Key infrastructure features
Berth 2 extension and marine structures
The new berth extension and marine structures have expanded the port’s capacity to accommodate larger international vessels and enhance operational efficiency.
- Extension Dimensions: 45 m × 30 m, bringing total wharf length to approximately 155 m.
- Design Load: 40 kPa UDL.
- Vessel Capacity: Up to 220 m LOA, 30 m beam, and 10.5 m draft (subject to dredging).
- Structural Works: 67 tubular steel piles (Ø914 mm × 22 mm), 12 high-energy SC1100 fenders, and 9 heavy-duty bollards.
- Berthing Support: Four new mooring/berthing dolphins positioned ~35 m off the main wharf for larger vessels.
Terminal yard and pavement reconstruction
The terminal yard and container handling areas were completely rebuilt and elevated to address sea-level rise and enhance cargo handling performance.
- Surface Design: 300 mm reinforced concrete base with 60+ MPa interlocking paver blocks.
- Drainage: High-capacity stormwater channels with oil-water separation units, ensuring compliance with PAT’s Green and Clean Ports Initiative.
Power and reefer upgrades
- New 2500 kVA standby generator to ensure energy resilience.
- Four reefer gantries with 96 plugs for expanded refrigerated container handling.
- Upgraded transformer and RMU systems for redundancy and reliable power supply.
Security and ISPS enhancements
- New ISPS-compliant perimeter fence and relocated guardhouse for improved monitoring.
- Enhanced access control, CCTV surveillance, and vehicle management systems fully aligned with international ISPS standards.
Environmental and operational efficiency
The upgraded QSIW incorporates climate-adaptive engineering and sustainability-focused systems, positioning Nuku‘alofa Port among the Pacific’s most modern and environmentally responsible facilities.
- Integration of energy-efficient LED lighting, low-emission backup systems, and advanced stormwater management.
- Infrastructure elevated to withstand projected sea-level rise and extreme weather events.
- Operational standards aligned with global Green Port principles.
Enabling future growth
With the Queen Salote International Wharf now fully operational, Tonga’s main seaport is equipped to handle increased vessel throughput, larger cargo volumes, and growing regional shipping demands. The new infrastructure strengthens Tonga’s logistics network, improves cargo flow efficiency, and supports the Kingdom’s long-term economic resilience.
For more information, visit www.portsauthoritytonga.com.
