Hanga Roa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hanga Roa
|
|
|---|---|
Harbour in Hanga Roa
|
|
Easter Island, map showing Hanga Roa, Terevaka, Rano Kau, and Mataveri International Airport, as well as the main tourist attractions Orongo, Rano Raraku, Ahu Tongariki and Anakena.
|
|
 Hanga Roa
Location in Pacific Ocean
|
|
| Country |  Chile |
| Region |  Valparaíso |
| Province |  Isla de Pascua |
| Commune | Isla de Pascua |
| Founded | 9 September 1888 |
| Population | 7,322 |
| Time zone | UTC−06:00 |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC−05:00 |
| Climate | Af |
Hanga Roa is the main town and harbor on Easter Island. This island is a special part of Chile. Hanga Roa is located on the island's west coast. It sits in a low area between two old volcanoes, Terevaka and Rano Kau. In the native Rapa Nui language, "Hanga Roa" means "wide bay" or "long bay."
Contents
History of Hanga Roa
When Chile officially claimed Easter Island, the native Rapa Nui people were asked to live in Hanga Roa. The rest of the island was then used as a large sheep farm. For many years, a company managed most of the island. During this time, the Rapa Nui people were not allowed to go to other parts of the island.
Land Rights and Agreements
Sometimes, there have been disagreements between the Chilean government and the Rapa Nui people. The Rapa Nui people believe they have ancient rights to their land. These disagreements have led to discussions about who owns certain properties, like hotels, in the town. In 2011, the family who owned the Hanga Roa Hotel gave the land back to the Rapa Nui people. However, they kept the right to manage the hotel for 30 more years. This was an important step in recognizing the Rapa Nui's connection to their land.
Exploring Hanga Roa
The main street in Hanga Roa is called Avenida Atamu Tekena. This street is the center of the town. You can find many hotels, restaurants, and shops along this road. The street was named after a Rapanui king, Atamu Te Kena. Before that, it was named after Captain Policarpo Toro, who helped Chile claim Easter Island in 1888.
Important Places in Town
The island's museum is in the center of Hanga Roa. The Roman Catholic "Holy Cross Church" is also located there. In recent years, more internet cafes and ATMs have opened. This makes it easier for people to connect and get money.
Population of the Town
In 1914, only about 250 people lived in Hanga Roa. At that time, many sheep lived on the rest of the island. Today, most of Easter Island's population lives in Hanga Roa. The island has about 7,750 people in total. About 7,322 of them live in Hanga Roa. This means that almost 95% of the island's residents call Hanga Roa home.
Economy and Activities
Hanga Roa's economy relies on several activities.
Tourism in Hanga Roa
Tourism is very important for Hanga Roa. Many hotels and guesthouses welcome visitors. Tourists come to see the island's famous World Heritage Sites, especially the large moai statues. Hanga Roa has some moai nearby, but larger ones are found in other parts of the island. The town can host about 2,500 visitors at a time. You can find everything from camping spots to fancy hotels.
Cultural Events and Landmarks
The Ahu Tahai archaeological site is a short walk from the town center. It's a great place to see moai. Every year, Hanga Roa hosts the Tapati Rapa Nui cultural festival. This event lasts for a month and features many traditional activities. Locals also sculpt giant wooden statues during this time.
Other Local Businesses
Besides tourism, people in Hanga Roa also work in fishing, farming, and administration. Several Chilean government offices, including the Chilean Navy, have a presence on the island.
Shipping and Port Activities
The harbor in Hanga Roa offers shipping services to Valparaíso, Chile. In 2018, an incident occurred where a ship in the port was hit by another vessel. This caused some diesel fuel to leak into the water. Efforts were made to clean up the spill and protect the environment.
Town Infrastructure
Hanga Roa has important services and facilities for its residents and visitors.
Transportation Hub
Mataveri International Airport is the only airport on Easter Island. LATAM Airlines, Chile's national airline, offers direct flights from Santiago. The flight takes about 5 hours. This airline is the only one that regularly flies to the island.
Educational Opportunities
Hanga Roa has several schools. The Colegio Lorenzo Baeza Vega focuses on primary education. It also teaches traditional Rapa Nui culture and the Rapa Nui language. The Liceo Aldea Educativa offers high school education. Students can study subjects like humanities, tourism, and agriculture.
Sports in Hanga Roa
Hanga Roa has a multi-use stadium called the Estadio de Hanga Roa. This is the home field for the CF Rapa Nui, which is the football (soccer) team that represents Easter Island.
Accessing Food
Food in Hanga Roa can be expensive at grocery stores. This is because it costs a lot to bring products to the island. Locals often sell fresh fish, meat, and vegetables directly. A popular snack in the town is the tuna empanada.
Images for kids
-
The Roman Catholic Holy Cross Church
-
The "Plaza de Hanga Roa"
-
New Hospital of Hanga Roa
See also
In Spanish: Hanga Roa para niños
