The Vaka Tereora (Tereora College) team sang with pride and joy in the choir and imene tuki sections, delighting the audience at Te Maeva Nui official opening ceremony on Monday night.

The young team and their dedicated teachers hit the stage at Te Are Karioi Nui (National Auditorium) with enthusiasm, competing in the event for the first time since 1973, when the annual cultural dance festival known as the Constitution Celebrations was launched.

First on stage was the Pukapuka/Nassau wenua team, who were joined by their Member of Parliament Tingika Elikana, giving the small but hearty team a boost.

Also performing on stage was Mangaia enua, Manihiki henua, Vaka Puaikura and Atiu enua.

Last night was the International Night of performances by Kapa Haka groups from Aotearoa New Zealand, Kiribati Community, Filipino Community and the Indonesia Community.

Te Maeva Nui is a significant event for the Cook Islands and provides an opportunity to celebrate our culture and heritage. The cultural performances tonight will start at 7pm. The order of appearance is as follows: Vaka Tereora – kapa rima, Mangaia enua – ute, Pukapuka/Nassau wenua - kapa rima, Guest Artist - Te hekenga ā rangi kapa haka. After intermission: Vaka Puaikura – pe’e, Vaka Tereora - ute, Atiu enua – kapa rima, Manihiki henua – ura pau.