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The much-anticipated Emo Aito Māori fruit carrying race begins with the potiki (children) category, followed by the women’s and men’s categories. TALAIA MIKA/ 24073017
Hundreds of people gathered in central Avarua at noon yesterday to witness the grand opening of the 59th Te Maeva Nui Cultural Festival, celebrating Cook Islands self-government.
Locals and tourists lined the town’s streets to watch the 14 beautifully decorated floats pass by.
The opening ceremony also saw the much-anticipated Emoaito Maori Fruit Carrying Race, which started with the children’s category, followed by the women’s and men’s competitions.
Prime Minister Mark Brown, who opened the event, said the week-long Te Mewanui celebrations showcased the country’s rich culture.
Brown added that the celebrations will culminate on Constitution Day on August 4, “a day when we celebrate our birth as a modern, independent nation.”
The BCI Trade Days kicked off at 8am this morning at the Punanga Nui Market. The three-day annual trade day attracted a record 90 stallholders.
The festival kicks off at Te Are Karioi Nui (National Auditorium) at 7pm tonight.
Eight groups – Atiu, Mangaia, Oire Nikao, Puaikura, Pukapuka, Takitumu, Te Fuinga O Niva and Tupapa Maraerenga – will present their cultural performances tonight.
Tickets are sold at the door for $20, $10 or $5.
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