MTUNZINI - is the Zulu word for "Place in the Shade" which originated from the time when a white trade hunter, named "John Dunne" (who served as chieftain under the Zulu king Cetswayo), had his Indaba's (hold discussions) under the big Milkwood trees adjacent to the Umlalazi lagoon. Historical sites dating back to these turbid times lend a mystical aura to this unspoilt area of Northern Natal. The village of Mtunzini was originally developed in about 1895 comprising mostly of the Magistrates Court, prison and station. Mtunzini's functions are mainly as a residential town, holiday resort and administrative center for the Mtunzini magisterial area. Its residents are mostly from the neighbouring points of Empangeni / Richards Bay / Isithebe and the Zululand University. The farmers from the surrounding cane farms are also an important group of the community. The industrial function of the town is geared to service and light industries to serve the needs of the local community and the ever-increasing numbers of holidaymakers at the various resorts. Mtunzini is on the direct route to the North on the N2 highway between Durban and Empangeni, and is also within easy driving distance from most of Natal's well-known game reserves and tourist attractions.