VANUA LAVA

volcanic island in the Banks Islands of Vanuatu, southwestern Pacific Ocean, 75 mi (120 km) north-northeast of Espiritu Santo. The island, 15 mi long by 12 mi wide, was first explored in 1859 by Bishop George Selwyn, who located a good harbour (Port Patteson) on the east coast. A second harbour, Vureas (Avareas) Bay, is on the southwest coast. Mt. Suretamati on the island rises to 3,022 ft (921 m) and is an active volcano, the sulfur deposits of which were once worked by a French concern. The island exports copra and cacao. Pop. (1979) 909.