Vaiaku, village, de facto capital of Tuvalu, west-central Pacific Ocean. It is located on the islet of Fongafale, part of Funafuti Atoll, which is the official capital. Most major government offices, including those of the prime minister and cabinet, the High Court, and the unicameral Parliament, are in Vaiaku. The Government Building, located on the west (lagoon) side of Funafuti, is near Funafuti International Airport. Pop. (2002) 516.