Atiu

This is one of the main island groups in Pasifika, consisting of a coral ring surrounding a central volcanic island, three main sandy islands on the reef and several smaller ones.

The central volcanic island is named Maungatake, about 1.5km wide and 800m high. No one lives here as the island is sacred to Tangaroa but restricted hunting is permitted to the natives. The coral reef surrounds the island at an average distance of 4 km from the shore. Just inside the reef and the shore is a circle of sandy islands. Most are uninhabited, apart from temporary residents, but the three largest ones, Takutea, Tamaketa and Suatuma, support native villages. Each is roughly circular about 500m across.

The main village is Aumatangi, located on Takutea, which has a population of nearly 100. The other two villages, Amuri & Vaipepa, are three quarters of the size. Each has their local chief and shaman but all are ruled by the Chief of Aumatangi, Mariri Ariki, and his Council consisting of six individuals who have proven themselves to be wise and brave. The shaman, Ona Kaikino, is the Chief's advisor on spiritual matters. Aumatangi is also the birthplace and home of the guild adventurer Aqualina, known here by her birthname of Hinemoana.

The villagers lead a simple life with most of their food coming from the sea. They also harvest pearl which is used for trade with other islands and, more recently, with traders from the Emerald Islands, Destiny and Novadom. Coconut and other food plants grow on the islands. The villagers are peaceful and visitors are assured of a warm, friendly reception.