Heiva Tu'aro Ma'ohi 2025

A vibrant celebration of traditional sports at Vairai Park

On Saturday, July 12, 2025, Vairai Park in Punaauia was transformed into a living arena of traditions, strength and cultural pride on the occasion of Heiva Tu'aro Ma'ohi, a flagship event for traditional Polynesian sports and games. Organized by the 'Āmuitahira'a Tū'aro Mā'ohi Federation, this annual gathering once again brought together the best 'aito (warriors, champions) of the Polynesian triangle for a spectacular day dedicated to authenticity and sharing.

An immersion in Mā'ohi cultural roots

The Heiva Tu'aro Ma'ohi is not just a sporting competition. It is above all a profound cultural manifestation, where every gesture, every outfit, every cry of encouragement resonates like a tribute to the ancestors. The participants, dressed only in pareu and flower crowns, embody this desire to preserve the essence of Polynesian traditions. Exit modern outfits: here, authenticity reigns supreme.

Spectacular and demanding events

The day of July 12 offered a rich and varied program, highlighting the diversity of traditional disciplines:

• • • Javelin Throw (Patia Fa) : a demonstration of precision and power, where the Tuamotu throwers shone with their technique. The coconut to be reached is perched at 9,50 meters and the throwers are 22 meters from the target
      

      Javelin throwing

      

      The pitcher's technique

    • Copra as a team : the Leeward Islands once again impressed with their speed and coordination in this event that is emblematic of daily island life.

      

    • Stone lifting : the athletes from the Marquesas Islands made their mark with remarkable performances in the lightweight, middleweight and master categories.

      

    • Traditional wrestling : the fights in the Tane +80kg category were particularly hard-fought, illustrating the robustness and strategy of the competitors.
    • Cultural show : from 12 p.m. to 13 p.m., a suspended moment allowed the public to enjoy traditional dances and songs, strengthening the link between sport and culture.

An international competition in the heart of the Polynesian triangle

What distinguishes the Heiva Tu'aro Ma'ohi is its international influence. Delegations from Hawaii, Samoa, Rapa Nui (Easter Island) , New Zealand and Cook Islands joined local athletes to compete in a friendly atmosphere. This cultural and sporting mix is a testament to the vitality of Mā'ohi traditions across the Pacific.

Federation President Enoch Laughlin stresses the importance ofperformance certification “Today, our sport is practiced internationally. We have reference times that are used to prepare the different 'aito of the Polynesian triangle.”

The island champions are in great shape

Among the most anticipated delegations, the austral have once again dominated the fruit carrier races, particularly in the premier 50 kg category. Canopies, recently engaged in the practice of Tu'aro Mā'ohi, surprised by their level, notably in stone lifter the tuamotu, with their javelin throwers from Ana'a, Niau, Makemo and Rangiroa, also marked this edition with their technical excellence.

The importance of cultural transmission

Beyond performance, the Heiva Tu'aro Ma'ohi is a transmission tool. Each event is preceded by a reminder of its origin and significance. Traditional sport is here placed in its daily context Copra, Pape Ha'ari, and coconut tree climbing are not just challenges, but vital activities on the islands. This cultural pedagogy is essential for younger generations to understand and perpetuate this knowledge.

A unifying and accessible event

Vairai Park hosted hundreds of spectators, families, curious people, enthusiasts, came to encourage the athletes and share a festive moment. The event, free and open to all, was able to create a friendly atmosphere, punctuated by the shouts of the supporters, the applause and the smiles. traditional games workshops allowed the youngest to learn the disciplines, reinforcing the intergenerational aspect of the festival.

A growing craze

Every year, the Heiva Tu'aro Ma'ohi grows in popularity. Structured, supervised and resolutely entertaining, it establishes itself as the benchmark for traditional Polynesian sportsIts success is based on rigorous organization, a constant promotion of culture, and a desire to promote traditions beyond borders. The 2025 edition confirms this momentum, with record participation and increased media coverage.

Ultimately

The Heiva Tu'aro Ma'ohi on July 12, 2025, at Vairai Park was much more than a sporting event. It embodied thePolynesian soul, in its strength, beauty, and generosity. Through the exploits of the 'aito, the songs, dances, and sharing, an entire culture was expressed, proud and alive. An unmissable event for anyone wishing to understand and celebrate the essence of the Mā'ohi people.