The Heiva, which used to be named Tiurai in the past, refers to the Polynesian festivities held during the month of July. It is a major cultural event, during which song and dance contests are put on, as well as arts and crafts exhibitions, traditional sports such as outrigger canoe racing, stone lifting and javelin throwing…
Traditional dances have a paramount place in the Polynesian society. In olden days they marked important steps in life and were performed to give the honours during official visits.
The Heiva revives the past and provides the younger generations with a sense of traditions. Each year, dance troupes tell the stories of our Fenua (country) with grace and sensuality. With their hands, they illustrate a legend, daily life scenes such as fishing or the preparation of local products. |
