Tū’aro māo’hi: traditional sports in the spotlight

Traditional sports competitions hold an important place in the Polynesian world. Organised by the ‘Āmuitahira’a Tū’aro Mā’ohi Federation (FATM) since 2003, the competitions today bring together numerous associations and hundreds of licensees spread over the 5 Polynesian archipelagos. Competitors from the Polynesian triangle are also expected.

 

Dexterity, sturdiness, endurance, skill, many qualities are required to triumph in these impressive disciplines, which always arouse the admiration of a public that is always very numerous to follow them. Coconut tree climbing, stone lifting, javelin throwing, coconut husking, copra, fruit carrier races, traditional wrestling, not forgetting the Va’a Tā’ie regattas, each of these disciplines embodies the most authentic and spectacular Polynesian traditions.

Coconut tree climbing, stone lifting, javelin throwing, coconut husking, copra, fruit carrying, wrestling, canoeing

 

Several events, from 3 to 17 July, in different locations: Venus Point, Paofai Gardens and Vairai Park.