Aukena Map

Description: Author: Ontheworldmap.com
Map based on the free editable OSM map openstreetmap.org.

Description: Author: Ontheworldmap.com

Aukena is a volcanic island within the Gambier Islands, covering 1.35 km² (0.52 sq mi) of land area. The island holds significant historical importance in French Polynesian Catholic history, featuring the well-preserved Saint Raphael Church, constructed in the 1840s during the peak of missionary activity in the region.

The island's economy is primarily centered around pearl farming, with numerous farms operating in the surrounding pristine waters. The exceptional water quality and protected lagoon environment have made Aukena one of the premier locations for cultivating high-quality Tahitian black pearls in French Polynesia.

The volcanic origin of Aukena has created particularly fertile soil, supporting small-scale agriculture including taro and breadfruit cultivation. Traditional farming methods are still practiced by the local population, who maintain ancestral agricultural techniques passed down through generations.

Archaeological evidence suggests long-term human habitation, with several sites dating back to ancient Polynesian settlements. The island's cultural landscape is enriched by historic missionary-period buildings, which stand as testament to the significant religious transformations of the 19th century. The current population of approximately 100 people maintains strong cultural connections with neighboring Mangareva, particularly through shared traditions and family ties.