Motulalo Explained

Motulalo is the largest islet of Nukufetau, Tuvalu.[1] [2] The traditional history of Nukufetau recalls that in order to protect the atoll from raiders from Tonga, Tauasa, an aliki (chief), was given Motulalo.[3] Tauasa would pull up coconut trees and throw them at the raiders.[3]

During World War II the American forces built an airfield and a deepwater wharf on Motulalo.[4] After the war the airfield was dismantled and the land returned to its owners.[4] Beginning in October 2023, the airfield returns to use, with domestic flights to Funafuti International Airport.[5]

Notes and References

  1. Book: Map of Nukufetau Atoll . Tuvaluislands.com.
  2. Book: British Admiralty Nautical Chart 766 Ellice Islands. 21 March 1872 . 1893. United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO).
  3. Book: Nofoaiga Lafita . Hugh . Laracy . Tuvalu: A History . 1983 . Institute of Pacific Studies, University of the South Pacific and Government of Tuvalu . 86–87. Chapter 12 - Nukufetau.
  4. Book: Melei Telavi . Hugh . Laracy . Tuvalu: A History . 1983 . Institute of Pacific Studies, University of the South Pacific and Government of Tuvalu . 143 . Chapter 18 - War.
  5. Web site: Air Tuvalu aircraft arrives. Radio New Zealand (RNZ). 11 October 2023. 2 November 2023.

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