Adding us as a Preferred Source tells Google you trust our content, so our articles show up more often in your Google Search, Discover feed, and AI Overviews.
verifiedCite
While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies.
Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions.
Select Citation Style
Atafu
atoll, Tokelau, New Zealand
Also known as: Duke of York Island
Atafu, coral atoll of Tokelau, a territory of New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean. It comprises 19 islets that rise to 15 feet (5 metres) above sea level and enclose a lagoon measuring 3 miles (5 km) by 2.5 miles (4 km). Discovered (1765) by British navigator John Byron, who named it Duke of York Island, Atafu was Christianized (1858) by the London Missionary Society. Despite heavy rainfall, fresh water is scarce, and islanders depend upon coconuts and marine life for subsistence. Shipping is hampered by a lack of good anchorages. Local administration consists of a Taupulega (Council of Elders), made up of heads of family groups and two elected members. Area 1.4 square miles (3.5 square km). Pop. (2006) 417.
This article was most recently revised and updated by Lorraine Murray.
Discover the fascinating events that shaped the world, straight from our editors.
By clicking “Sign Up”, you consent to the Britannica
Privacy Policy
and
Terms of Use.