Arviat

Photo: Hilary Irwin

Overview

Arviat is Nunavut’s southernmost community on the territory’s mainland, and one of its largest with a population of 2,864 (2021 census). It is also one of the more accessible communities from the south, via a 2.5-hour flight from Winnipeg to Rankin Inlet then a 45-minute flight from Rankin Inlet to Arviat. Located in the Kivalliq region of Nunavut, the hamlet is part of the Central Time Zone.

Highlights

Photo: Hilary Irwin

Arviat is based on the Inuktitut word "arviq" which means "Bowhead whale." A community with a rich fishing and hunting culture, Arviat has produced some well-known musicians. Susan Aglukark, also known as the Arctic Rose, was born in Churchill, Manitoba and grew up in Arviat. In 1995, she became the first Inuk performer to have a Top 10 hit when her single “O Siem” from the album This Child reached No. 1 on the Canadian country and adult contemporary charts.

People frequently travel between Arviat and its southern neighbour Churchill, Manitoba for supplies. Means of transportation include boat (in the summer and fall), snowmobile and Bombardier (a large, heavy-duty snowmobile).

Weather and landscape

Arviat has the third-highest mean annual temperature in Nunavut, but sitting at the 61st parallel, it still hosts a polar climate. In winter, days in Arviat are as short as 5.5 hours and in summer they peak at about 19.5 hours. Temperatures in Arviat typically range between 32 degrees Celsuis in the winter and 15 degrees Celsius in the summer.

Located on the western shore of Hudson Bay, Arviat's rolling landscape includes tundra, lakes and rivers.

Photo: Hilary Irwin