Need cash when I land, best place in Tonga? Airport or places in the city?
I've been to Tonga multiple times, and the best way to get cash is to just use an ATM. Don't waste your time with the airport exchange booths. They have terrible rates and high fees. I always use the ATM at BSP Bank in Nuku'alofa because it's always been reliable. Since the currency is the Paʻanga, it's best to have a good supply of it, as it's not widely used outside of Tonga.
The airport exchange counters have awful rates. Your best bet is to find a bank or licensed exchange bureau in the city. There are a few reputable ones in Nuku'alofa. The best option is to use an ATM at a major bank like ANZ or TDB. They are safe and reliable, and you'll get a much better exchange rate. It’s always best to be prepared with a good amount of local cash before you head out on your trip.
The airport exchange is a terrible deal. The best way to get cash is to use an ATM at a bank in the city. You'll find a few ATMs at the airport, but they can be unreliable and have high fees. My advice is to get a little bit of money just to get to your hotel and then find a bank. The ATMs from BSP Bank in Nuku'alofa are generally very reliable and will give you a good rate.
My advice is to skip the airport currency exchange. It's a complete rip-off. Your best bet is to go to an ATM from a major bank in Nuku'alofa, like ANZ or BSP Bank (Bank of the South Pacific). You'll get a rate much closer to the official interbank rate, even with the small ATM fees. The Tongan Paʻanga (TOP) is the official currency, and while some places accept US dollars or Australian dollars, you'll always get a better deal paying in the local currency.