In celebration of Cook Islands' 60th Anniversary of Self-Governance celebrations this year, Cook Islands Tourism is presenting Takurua – taste of the season, a culinary celebration of identity, heritage and connection to Cook Islands homeland through food.

Kuru (breadfruit) – a food crop that has long sustained the Cook Islands people will be showcased in the Takurua series that embraces the anniversary theme, “I know who I am, I have a homeland – Kua kite au i toku turanga, e Avaiki toku.”

Takurua will offer both locals and visitors the chance to experience the history, taste and significance of kuru in Cook Islands cuisine, from its traditional umu preparation to modern gourmet creations.

The humble kuru is an under-utilised but highly nutritive crop containing complex carbohydrates while being low in fat. It is also a good source of essential amino acids, and is naturally gluten free.

Presented in partnership with Tauranga Vānanga/Ministry of Cultural Development, and Te Tango Enua, the Takurua will feature the secondary schools Ta’u Umu, the Kuru Cook-Off, and the Mystery Taste Tour events from Friday, February 21 – Tuesday, February 25.

Kuru will take centre stage, connecting generations through food, storytelling, and cultural appreciation and bring together local farmers, chefs, home cooks, and the wider community, to explore the versatility, history, and significance of kuru in Cook Islands cuisine.

For Karla Eggelton, chief executive of Te Mato Manava Turoto/Cook Islands Tourism, food is  deeply woven into the fabric of Cook Islands identity.

“Food is a reflection of who we are as a people. We sing about it, dance about it, and celebrate it in our daily lives and traditions. Takurua gives us the opportunity to tell our food story in a way that connects us to our past while also showcasing how our cuisine is evolving.”

She adds, “For visitors, food is one of the most meaningful ways to experience a destination. More than ever, travellers want to immerse themselves in local flavours.”

Tourisms’ director of global sales and marketing, Noeline Mateariki says this event isn’t just about celebrating food, but also the people behind it- the people who grow it, cook it, and share it.

“It’s about the mamas, papas, and home cooks who have perfected their recipes over generations. This event is about honouring our everyday food heroes and celebrating the role food plays in our communities,” Mateariki said.

Secretary of Tauranga Vānanga, Emile Kairua says passing on traditional knowledge is important in keeping Cook Islands heritage alive.

“Our traditional food practices are more than just cooking – they are a connection to our past, our land, and our way of life. The Ta’u Umu is an opportunity for our youth to not only learn the skills of preparing an umu but also to understand its cultural significance.

“When we teach our young people these traditions, we ensure they are carried forward for generations to come,” Kairua said.

Danny Mataroa, president of Te Tango Enua farmers association, has long been an advocate for the kuru, and for households to grow kuru for food security and self-reliance.

Mataroa said kuru is more than just an ingredient – it has a place in Cook Islands history.

“Kuru has always been a vital food source for our people, and this event is an opportunity to honour its role in our past while exploring new ways to keep it alive in our food today,” Mataroa said.

The secondary schools Ta’u Umu event will be held at Te Puna Korero, Ministry of Cultural Development grounds from 7.30am – 1.30pm on Friday, February 21. The students will go head-to-head, preparing a traditional umu with kuru, and participate in cultural activities and traditional games, facilitated by Tauranga Vananga.

On Saturday, February 22, the Kuru Cook-Off will be held at the Punanga Nui Market from 9am - 11am. Home cooks will compete for the best tiopu kuru (breadfruit stew) that has a cash prize of $1000 for the top dish.

If you would like to participate, call Tourism on 29435 or email takurua@cookislands.travel.

The Mystery Taste Tour evening is limited to 90 guests. This event will run on Tuesday, February 25, from 5pm – 9.30pm. Guests will travel by bus to mystery locations serving a kuru-inspired taster. There will be live entertainment, storytelling and a Takurua feast. For tickets, email takurua@cookislands.travel.

The Takurua event was first launched in July 2018 as the Takurua – Takurua O Avaiki Raro, Avaiki Vaenga, Manavanui programme, designed to showcase Cook Islands feasts and cuisine through a series of workshops, site visits and events.

• Cook Islands Tourism/Melina Etches