Located: on the beach directly in front of an ancient surfing pass where Tasman came to anchor thus becoming the first European to meet with the inhabitants of Tongatapu.

Concept: The term “maritime” is synonymous with the seafaring Polynesians and their ancestors in general but even more specifically the once vast oceanic empire of Tonga. The museum will house a comprehensive display of artefacts that illustrate this long, rich past.

The Name: Tonga is the birthplace of the Polynesian culture. “Ha’a Fonu” or “Clan of the Sea Turtle” is a symbolic tribute to the family of Polynesia and their intrepiexplorations across the largest and unknown ocean- the Pacific. The far wandering Fonu was often used as a motif of reverence.

HA’A FONU: TONGA MARITIME MUSEUM

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Exhibits: will span 3,000 years of Tongan history in one room.
• Beginning with the first arrival of the “Lapita People” and through their transformation to the Polynesian Culture- which spread as far east as the Americas, north to Hawai’i and south to Aotearoa (New Zealand).
• The conception of surfing as a cultural activity, it’s passing on to Hawai’i and eventual dispersal around the entire globe.
• The arrival of Europeans and early interactions.

• The "Boat House"
• The "Maui"
• The "Treehouse"
• The "Lookout"
• Museum