Tonga's Niu'ui Hospital has reopened after being moved to higher gound on Ha'apai.
Niu'ui Hospital in Ha'apai suffered major damage in Cyclone Ian in 2014. Photo: Scott McLennan
With the help of the Asian Development Bank and other partners, the hospital was moved as part of the Climate Resilience Sector Project.
The King of Tonga, Tupou VI, led the opening ceremony and the ADB's regional director, Masayuki Tachiiri, attended the event.
Tonga's Health Minister, Amelia Afuha'amango Tu'ipulotu, said the new location was less vulnerable to disasters and safer for patients, staff, and visitors.
In 2014, Cyclone Ian, the most powerful storm ever recorded in Tonga, passed directly over Ha'apai, taking part of the hospital's roof.
It was then close to an eroding coastline but now on the island's highest point, the hospital has been given better water storage and X-ray facilities.
ADB's regional director, Masayuki Tachiiri, attended the relaunch of Tonga's Niu'ui Hospital. Photo: Asian Development Bank