Kia orana, Oscar

French Polynesia President Oscar Temaru was yesterday the first Pacific leader to arrive in the Cook Islands for the Pacific Leaders Forum.

It was a warm and friendly welcome for the Tahitian leader and his delegation.

Prime Minister Henry Puna and Deputy Prime Minister Tom Marsters led the turou with support from traditional dancers and pupils of Titikavkea College, which has ‘adopted’ French Polynesia as part of the Forum.

They are pictured at right clapping in appreciation of the welcoming performance as they walk to the VIP lounge.

Temaru chose to pay his respects to two old friends, Sir Geoffrey Henry and Sir Terepai Maoate, by visiting their graves before going to his hotel.

This morning, before the Forum formalities begin, Temaru and Puna will meet at the Nikao golf course for a friendly game.