Cook Islands Tourism chief executive Karla Eggelton says the upcoming Takurua culinary festival gives an opportunity to share the nation’s food story in a way that “connects us to our past while also showcasing how our cuisine is evolving”.

“Food is a reflection of who we are as a people,” Eggelton added.

To commemorate Cook Islands’ 60^th anniversary of self-governance, Te Mato Manava Turoto/Cook Islands Tourism, is presenting the Takurua – Taste of the Season food celebration, starting this Friday with the secondary schools’ Ta’u Umu competition.

The much-anticipated Tiopu Kuru (breadfruit) cook off will be held on Saturday at the Punanga Nui Market, starting from 9am, followed by the Takurua Mystery Taste Tour, the finale of three events, on Tuesday, February 25.

Takurua is a culinary celebration of identity, heritage and connection to our homeland through food and this year, the taste of the season is the humble kuru.

The mystery tour gives the local culinary industry an opportunity to showcase their creative and culinary skills with innovative kuru-inspired dishes to connect visitors with our community, traditions and culture.

Guests will begin at the Punanga Nui Market at 5pm where they will board the Kuru Express, which will transport them to several mystery locations.

A dedicated MC and live local musicians will accompany the journey, sharing the cultural significance of Takurua, insights into Cook Islands history and interesting facts about kuru.

The Takurua feast will feature local delicacies such as ika mata, poke meika, taro, varaoa karo, puaka and kuru infused dishes.

At each stop, the location’s chef will share their methods and intentions behind each dish.

The Mystery Taste Tour tickets are $90 per person. To purchase tickets, email takurua@cookislands.travel. Spots are limited to 90 people.