Swains Island

Swains Island, called Olohega in Tokelauan, was probably settled by Polynesian voyagers around the mid-1300s; mounds and a sacred stone still bear witness to that early life. Oral traditions link the atoll to Fakaofo in…

When you go on holiday or fall ill, someone needs to look after the cat, dog or rabbit. Neighbours are ideal: short distances and a familiar face for the animal. It's best to meet beforehand for a quick visit. Are you l…

For some older people the trip to the supermarket is hard work, especially when it's icy or very hot. If you're going shopping anyway, it's often easy to pick something up for someone else. A note in the hallway or a qu…

Guitar, drums, singing or beats on your laptop: music brings people together. Many towns have rehearsal rooms, music schools or open-mic nights where you can try things out. And bands are often looking for exactly the i…

Looking for an apprenticeship can feel huge at first. A good start: think about what you enjoy and ask local businesses directly about a work placement. Many companies welcome speculative applications even when nothing …

The weekend is coming and the question is the same as always: what shall we do? Got an idea for a day trip, a concert or simply a lovely afternoon in Swains Island? Drop your tips in the comments!

A good walk clears the head and shows your home from a new angle. Which route do you love most in Swains Island, and roughly how long does it take? Share your favourite loop with us!

Lots of things in town only work because people give their time for free. Where do you volunteer in Swains Island, and where could more helping hands be useful? Tell us about it and inspire others to join in!

Overture of "The Marriage of Figaro" Musopen · Public Domain

"Tragic Overture", op. 81 by Brahms Musopen · Public Domain

Nocturne No. 20 in C-sharp minor, Op. posth. Musopen · Public Domain

Mazurek a-moll op. 17 nr 4 Musopen · Public Domain

Mazurka in B major, Op. 63 no. 1 Musopen · Public Domain