Young talents set to shine at Te Maeva Nui

Rarotonga, Cook Islands, is vibrant with the sights, sounds, and aromas of Cook Islands culture as the community prepares for the iconic cultural celebration, Te Maeva Nui.

The spotlight is on a new generation of performers and composers, who are infusing fresh energy into the nation’s cultural history.

Despite their youth, performers from across the Cook Islands are ready to deliver powerful, high-quality performances.

Emile Kairua, Secretary to the Ministry of Culture, expressed admiration for what he witnessed during group rehearsals.

He told PMN Cook Islands that a notable example is the team from Oire Nikao, traditionally considered one of the smaller groups, who demonstrate that team size does not define impact.

“The age of the performers is no indication of the calibre that they’re bringing to the floor,” Kairua says, praising the high standards seen during rehearsals.

“Oire Nikao is often seen as one of the smallest teams, but they bring big spirits to their performance.”

The substantial migration of Cook Islanders seeking work in Aotearoa and Australia has led to the rise of youthful leadership behind the scenes.

Emerging composers like Trevor Moeara and Teata-Nga Moeara are creating original songs that will feature in the performances.

The Manihiki Henua group during rehearsal. Photo/PMN News/Susnation Seta

“We’re going to get recordings of some awesome songs that are going to be composed over this period of Te Maeva Nui,” Kairua says.

Beyond the stage, the ministry has been working diligently to ensure a smooth experience for everyone arriving on the island. Over 1600 people, all travelling by ship, one from Tonga and another from Tuvalu for the Northern groups, while Air Rarotonga facilitates for the Southern groups. The estimated transportation cost is around $4.1 million.

With the increased number of visitors from the outer islands and the diaspora, the ministry is on high alert, working closely with the police force to promote road safety education throughout the Island.

Watch Emile Kairua's full interview below.

In the interview, Kairua announced that this year’s festival will be live-streamed for free, allowing Cook Islanders around the world to access and enjoy the biggest celebration in Cook Islands history.

The celebration begins on Friday, 25 July, with International Night, showcasing the diverse communities living on Rarotonga, and concludes on 3 August with the Imene Tuki or Traditional Hymns category.

The Atiu Enua Drum Dance Group. Photo/Supplied