Hawaiki Nui Va'a
The Hawaiki Nui Va'a canoe race is one of the most spectacular open sea competitions in the world. Over 100 traditional canoes take to the water for the race from Huahine to the paradise island of Bora Bora.
The race covers 130km (78 miles) in three stages, from Huahine to Raiatea, Raiatea to Tahaa and then Tahaa to Bora Bora. It is a demanding test of physical endurance combining both traditional and modern techniques. Catch the competitors' arrival at the finishing point on the third day at Pointe Matira in Bora Bora, where you can get washed away in the party atmosphere of the bringue - a traditional Polynesian celebration with lots of music and even more drinking.
A Va'a is a traditional outrigger canoe. Va'a is its Tahitian name, whereas in New Zealand it is a Waka Ama, in Hawaii a Wa'a. Throughout the South Pacific people developed these basic vessels, built by hollowing out logs. It was in Polynesia that the art is thought to have been truly mastered and this is why the Hawaiki Nui Va'a attracts crews from all over the world.
Related Information
Website: Hawaiki Nui Va'a Website
| State Information: | Society Islands |
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| Full Name: |
| Name: | Tahiti Tourisme |
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| Location: | Tahiti |
| Address: | Immeuble Paofai, Batiment D - Boulevard Pomare, B P 65 Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia |
| Email: | tahiti-tourisme@mail.pf |
| Phone: | +689 50 57 00 |
| Fax: | +689 43 66 19 |
