Futuna Island, Vanuatu

For the larger island in Wallis and Futuna, see Futuna Island, Wallis and Futuna.
Futuna
Island
Futuna

Location in Vanuatu

Coordinates: 19°32′S 170°13′E / 19.533°S 170.217°ECoordinates: 19°32′S 170°13′E / 19.533°S 170.217°E
Country  Vanuatu
Province Tafea Province
Area
 • Total 11 km2 (4 sq mi)
Highest elevation 666 m (2,185 ft)
Population (2009)
 • Total 532
 • Density 48/km2 (130/sq mi)
Time zone VUT (UTC+11)

Futuna is an island in the Tafea province of Vanuatu. It is the easternmost island in the country.

History

It was formed by the uplift of an underwater volcano, which last erupted in the Pleistocene, at least 11,000 years ago. It reaches a height of 666 m. It is sometimes called West Futuna to distinguish it from Futuna Island, Wallis and Futuna. Although it is part of the Melanesian country of Vanuatu it is a Polynesian outlier.

Population

The island has a population of 535 according to the 2009 census.[1] There are 5 villages on Futuna Island:

The main village is Mohoun'gha, in the northwest. Ipao, in the northeast, is just west of the airport. The island has ten regions: Iraro, Itapapa, Itapasiesi, Matangi, Matowei, Nabao, Nariari, Rakaoroa, Serinao, and Tchinaroa. The inhabitants of the island have a style of hymn singing, established by 19th century missionaries, which is distinctive among Pacific islands[2]

Transportation

The island is served by Futuna Airport.

See also

References

  1. ↑ 2009 Census Summary release final - Government of Vanuatu
  2. ↑ UNESCO - Culture