Mangaia came to a standstill on Saturday for the historic Bicentennial Celebration’s opening ceremony, marking 200 years of Christianity on the island.

Hundreds gathered at the main Bicentennial Arena for the opening ceremony, which featured introductions of all groups, the theme song launch, the Bicentennial book unveiling, entertainment, an island feast (kaikai), and culminated in a dazzling fireworks display.

Among them was island resident Metua Vaiimene who said the event was “next level”.

“I think it’s easily the biggest event ever held on Mangaia with probably over 1000 people in attendance. Bigger even than the Tri Series and Manea Games sports events held in the past,” Vaiimene told Cook Islands News.

“The opening ceremony was a colourful showcase of faith and culture and has set the scene for the week-long festivities.

“The highlights for me included the singing from the choir, and the dancing, especially the theme song. Of particular interest was the introduction of and attendance by descendants of the first Tahitian missions to bring Christianity to Mangaia 200 years ago.”

Vaiimene said the whole programme was inspiring with proud Mangaians and happy visitors all around.

“Numangatini Ariki wanted these celebrations to be a catalyst for religious, social, cultural, economic and overall development of Mangaia. I certainly feel that this event is going to have an impact on the future of our island, as he envisioned!

“It was so good to see the hard work over the last three years, from the people on the island and from all over the diaspora, come to fruition last (Saturday) night in an opening ceremony we can all be proud of.” The celebration will go for a week, culminating with the closing ceremony on June 15.