The heartbeat of French Polynesia emanates from a special place in Raiatea, the sacred Taputapuatea marae.

The expansion of Polynesians throughout the Pacific began on Raiatea from this exact site. After offering blessings through sacred ceremonies and celebrations, outriggers with original settlers ventured north to Hawaii and west to New Zealand.

Raiatea, meaning “faraway heaven” and “sky with soft light,” was first named Havai’i and is considered the homeland of the ancient Polynesians. Recognised as the most sacred Island in the region, the green-carpeted mountains rise to the cloud-capped peak of the celebrated Mt. Temehani.

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