Photo: RNZ/ Megan Whelan
Statistics from the Asian Development Bank show about 22 percent of the Tonga population lives below the poverty line.
The high cost of living means many people struggle to meet basic needs.
The ADB points out that there is also a lack of access to basic infrastructure, services and utilities and low levels of employment or income generating opportunities.
A street in downtown Nuku Alofa in Tonga. Photo: TORSTEN BLACKWOOD / AFP
Of 14 Pacific countries the Marshall Islands population is the most poor, with just over half its people living below the national poverty line.
An aerial look at crowded Ebeye Island in the Marshall Islands, one of two urban centers where poverty and income disparities are high Photo: Anjojo Kabua
Tonga's closest neighbours, Fiji, has 31% of its population living below the poverty line and Samoa 26.9%.
Kings Wharf in Suva Photo: Supplied
Vanuatu has the lowest poverty statistics at 12.7%.
The bustling main street of Vanuatu's capital, Port Vila. Photo: RNZI / Jamie Tahana