[1] The islands are partially covered in coconut plantations, and have a copra and oil factory at Yandina (on Mbanika).

[3] There is also a settlement of Polynesians, resettled from Tikopia, that lives in Nukufero on the west side of the larger island, Pavuvu.

In March 1943, as part of American military operations during the Solomons campaign of World War II, the islands were occupied by U.S. troops.

[5][6] [1] Remnants of the U.S. presence, such as concrete slabs and large metal storage sheds, still exist.

[8] The Yandina police station was the scene of one of the opening events of ethnic tensions, where a group of men raided the armoury and stole some high-powered weapons and ammunition.

[11] At one time the Yandina Plantation Resort provided tourist accommodation for scuba divers.