Mataiva Atoll
Geography
Mataiva atoll is the westernmost of the Tuamotu Archipelago. Aside from coral
islands surrounding the lagoon, there are also several small islets located
within the lagoon. There are rich phosphate deposits on the atoll. Mataiva is
part of the Palliser group (subgroup of Tuamotu).
Other names: Tepoetiriura, Lazarev atoll.
Location: 14°53′S 148°43′W Tikehau
atoll is located 35 km to the east, Rangiroa atoll is located 79 km to the
east, Tahiti is 311 km to the south.
Area: 25 km² (land) and 16 km² (lagoon) ;10 km
long and 5 km wide.
Highest point: 14 m.
Highest point: 14 m.
Population: 280 (2012)
Largest settlement: Pahua
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| Map of Mataiva |
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| Mataiva |
History
The atoll had been inhibited by Polynesians before it
was discovered by Europeans. There is an ancient ceremonial platform (Marae
Papiro) on the atoll. It was associated with a turtle cult.
30
July 1820 - Fabian
Gottlieb von Bellingshausen from Russia is the first European to visit Mataiva
on ships Vostok and Mirni. He named this atoll Lazarev.
1999 - The
inauguration of the airport.
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| Mataiva |
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| Mataiva |
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| Mataiva |
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