About Us

Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair. Kahlil Gibran

This is our dream...

Outriggers in Paradise is new to Vava'u. We started operating our outrigger canoe tours in 2007, which means we're still fresh and keen to show off this beautiful part of the world to new and returning visitors alike. There's always something different to see.

We're two Aussies who decided to leave the rat race behind and do what most people dream of doing - live on a tropical island where there is no such thing as freezing winters or rules, and traffic jams are a distant memory.


My name is Bruce Haig. I am an avid outrigger and Dragon Boat paddler. I tore myself away from coaching the Brisbane Manly Dragon Boat Club to move to Vava'u with my wife. I love all aspects of this exciting sport, whether it's a leisurely paddle going with the ocean current or putting some extra effort in to reach an outer island where ther only sound is the waves lapping on the shores. It was an easy decision for us to offer outrigger canoe tours to show beautiful Vava'u off to the world.


My name is Julianne and I am a fish. It's been my lifelong dream to live on a South Pacific island. I am happiest in the water but when I have to live on dry land I'm responsible for making sure our guests know all about Outriggers in Paradise and enjoy their experience in this amazing part of the world we call home.

Malo e lelei, my name is Arnie. I have lived in many places around the world but Tonga is my home. I came back here to start my family and do the things I missed when I was away. Outrigger paddling is in my blood. It’s the best way to travel around my island home.

Our guides are trained in guiding our tours, helping our guests and, when necessary, applying emergency first aid. They are steeped in local knowledge and pretty good cooks too! Your Outriggers in Paradise Guide will answer all your questions, and if he doesn't know the answer he will find out (or just make it up!).

We are all firmly committed to sustainable tourism. Our ethos is to make sure our activities have only a beneficial impact on the environment, culture and lives of the people of Tonga.

Our Values
We would like to share with you the aspects of our business that we never compromise on - as we hope to attract like-minded people…

• We have fun!
• We respect and value the people, nature and the environment.
• We abide by the principles of sustainable living.
• We are constantly learning.
• We all benefit from our success and abundance.
• We make things simple.

If this sounds like what you've been looking for, check out our tours here.

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