This year, seven groups representing different islands and districts of Rarotonga showcased their unique and captivating dances, chants and music, which have been passed down through generations.

The eager awaited 2024 Te Maeva Nui cultural festival kicked off on Wednesday night at Te Are Karioi Nui (National Auditorium).

Blending traditional elements with contemporary influences, these passionate performing artists representing Atiu, Te Fuinga O Niva (Manihiki and Rakahanga), ‘Ōire Nikao, Vaka Puaikura, Pukapuka and Nassau, Vaka Takitumu and Tupapa Maraerenga immersed the audience in the sights, sounds and spirit of the Cook Islands, offering a dynamic and memorable experience.

With only three weeks of rehearsals consisting of late nights into the wee hours of the morning, the groups came together to share their impressive talents bringing Te Maeva Nui stage alive with a dazzling display of proud cultural identity and artistic energy.

Well known for their dynamic and spirited pe’e (chant), Vaka Puaikura did not disappoint, opening the show with a strong, riveting pe’e based on the naming of their sea passage Vaitoko, celebrating its popularity.

Atiu Enuamanu’s young female singers sang with determination in their ute performance with the vibrant Helen Williams singing her heart out with pride.

Vaka Takitumu based their smooth lively kapa rima (action song) on “te Avarau ko Avana” in the district of Takitumu, composed by Travel Moeara and Piritau Nga Jr, akarava iatu e Ohiva Williams.

Vaka Puaikura hit the stage again for their second performance – their ute sung with joy by the happy and energetic young women dancing on stage.

Te Fuinga O Niva, with their stunning costume designs, delivered a powerful kapa rima led by their team leader, Maiti Samson.

‘Ōire Nikao’s vibrant male dancers threw their energy into their spirited ura pa’u that was based on Mangō Nui, a renowned passage in the Ngati ‘Ārera tribe of Nikao.  

The small Niuean community group led by Meleaone Tumii and Sisi and Mann Short was overwhelmed by the flood of cash donations from the audience for their hostel building project during their guest artist performance.

The funds raised will help the Niuean community build and maintain a proper hostel to house their members.

The cultural festival continued yesterday with another night of memorable performances.

Tonight’s Te Maeva Nui performances are as follows: Te Fuinga O Niva – pe’e, Pukapuka Nassau – Ute, Oire Nikao – kapa rima, Vaka Puaikura – ura pa’u, intermission, Te Fuinga O Niva – ute, Pukapuka Nassau – kapa rima, Vaka Takitumu – ura pa’u, Tupapa – kapa rima, Atiu Enua – ura – pa’u.