This past winter we were fascinated by an article in Hana Hou magazine about Rurutu, a tiny and remote island in French Polynesia where kalo is grown in the same mounded manner like we do. In addition, the people there pound kalo into poi exactly like Hawaiians, using the same implements, and they call it popoi! As far as we knew, Hawaii was unique in this regard. Coincidentally, months later, a young man named Tamatea whose family lives on Rurutu came to visit our lo‘i. Tamatea explained Rurutu’s thriving kalo culture and manner of eating it with every meal. After this intriguing conversation, we reached out to his uncle, Viriamu (the kalo farmer featured in the Hana Hou article) and began planning an expedition in search of lost ancient knowledge and important cultural connections vital to us as we search the past to find answers for our future.
For over 10 years we have been seeking knowledge of the ancient style of puʻe puʻe kalo cultivation, feeling almost like pioneers, and always wondering if what we are doing is correct. Going to Rurutu will enlighten and educate us on a tradition that has continued uninterrupted for 2,000 years, and affirm the path we are already on. Going there will allow us the opportunity to step back in time and experience a place where kalo is still the staple, and where the practice of pounding kalo into poi may have first begun. In short, this is an opportunity to reconnect to and build a relationship with others of a shared ancient heritage and bring that ʻike or knowledge back to share in Hawaii.
Music By
Robi Kahakalau - “Himeni Tatarahapa”
Enua Music (Azonto remix DJ Bery) - “Tanu Taro”
(used with permission)
Mauruuru maitai ia
Tati Eliane Tepa, Tamatea Salmon, Tati Clarisse Tepa, Tumataarii Tepa
Viriamu, Elin, Matotea, Heimana & Amai Teuruarii
Pension Teautamatea
Tonton Francois Teiva, Tati Vero Fareura, Mohea Teiva, Bus de Leau
Te Farepule o Tarirea ma Punaauia, Hiti Tane & Hiti Vahine
Te Farepule o Tarirea ma Maharepa
Te Farepule o Tarirea ma Papeete
Video Created By
Cassie Nichols - Created By Kaui
goo.gl/kjy3TN