3D2Z – Rotuma

The 3D2Z team will be at IOTA OC-060 in Rotuma from November 15 to December 4, 2024.
Team – W6IZT, W8HC, K4NHW, etc.
Nearest DX Point 3D2Z
3D2Z Log Searchsearch They will operate on the HF bands, including the CQ WW DX CW competition event on November 23-24, 2024.
More information will be provided later.

Rotuma Island: stunning views and pricey cheap holidays

Rotuma Island is one of Fiji’s 100 inhabited islands, located in the Pacific Ocean, about 500 kilometers north of the country’s capital, Suva. The island’s nearest major neighbor is New Zealand.

Rotuma Island. Author – sunshinesimis.

Colonial history

The land of Rotuma was first discovered by Europeans in 1719, when British representatives landed on the island’s territory. Then, almost a century later, they claimed the island as their own and lived here as masters until the second half of the last century.

Economic situation

The island has a relatively small territory. It covers an area of ​​43 square kilometers. Another 3 square kilometers are occupied by smaller surrounding islands. Total population: 2,002 people.

The main source of income for locals is the extraction and processing of coconut deer. A small number of tourists who enjoy secluded vacations also bring income to the state treasury.

3D2Z. Rotuma DX Adventure Tour. Logo.

Tourists in Rotuma: ascetic conditions and pleasant experiences

The main means of transportation on the island are two roads, one of which is a rural road connecting villages, and the other is a well-equipped coastal strip.

The island is divided into seven administrative districts, and each settlement has its own coast and beaches with white sand and blue water.

The largest settlements on the island are the administrative centre Ahau and the smaller settlement of Motusa, which also serves as Rotuma’s port.

Rotuma is a great place for walking. The land of the island is volcanic and has an undulating topography. The slopes attract all lovers of hiking or long walks.

There is a clear distinction between the vegetation of wild animals and the crops grown by local residents, which can be seen with the naked eye.

The few locals live an orderly life and occasionally receive tourists. They will let you see their way of life.

Despite the trivialities of life, the quietness and tranquility of tourists attract many people who are reluctant to leave.

Living conditions on Rotuma are very poor. There are no hotels on the island. Accommodation for visiting guests is in small, poorly decorated houses. If serious problems arise, it is difficult to get qualified help. There are no official services.

Rotuma Island. Author – John Game.

Communication is difficult and costly

Holidays in Rotuma are not cheap. Despite the average level of service and simple resort conditions, flights to the island are expensive. A three-hour flight from Suva, the capital of Fiji, will cost nearly 800 euros.

Meanwhile, flights to Rotuma are erratic. Flights usually come once a week and take off on schedule depending on weather conditions. It is not uncommon for planes to be unable to fly to Rotuma’s small airport after it rains because the runway is flooded. Scheduled flights are also prone to cancellations during holidays, and passengers may not receive advance notice.

Another way to reach the island is by boat. A cargo ship docks at the coast of Rotum every month. Ordinary passengers also frequently take this ship.

Favorable climate

The climate of Rotuma is tropical and humid. The rainy season is pronounced and lasts from November to March. The climate is dry from May to October with almost no rainfall.

The average temperature is between 23 and 25 degrees Celsius.

The Unique Language of Rotum

The language of the local inhabitants belongs to the distinct languages ​​distinguished by linguists from all over the world. According to the rule, the last vowel in a word changes in some cases together with the last consonant.

Rotuma Day in Fiji

One of Fiji’s public holidays is Rotuma Day, which is celebrated every year on May 13. The reason for the celebration is the island’s incorporation into the country.

Previously, this festival was celebrated only by the local islanders. But now, it is also celebrated on other islands of Fiji besides Rotuma. This festival is celebrated with great pomp and circumstance. This form of celebration is because many people who once lived in Rotuma have moved away and settled in other provinces and cities of the state.

Traditionally, on Rotuma Day, Fijian authorities visit the island in person to conduct the ceremonial part of the event, presenting their plans to the people and expressing their wishes.

3D2Z. Where is Rotuma Island located. Map.