Excerpt and photo from pmn.co.nz
Esteemed Cook Islands community elder and trailblazer of the ASB Polynesian Festival (Polyfest), Mama Tupou Manapori, is calling on families and the community to share their knowledge to preserve cultural traditions and ensure the education of the younger generation.
Her call comes amid rising concerns that traditional knowledge, practices, and stories may disappear without proactive efforts.
“There aren’t enough Cook Islands teachers in the schools to do the job,” she told PMN Cook Islands host Tina Maro.
“I always rely on and encourage our teachers to ask the parents to come on board and support … the biggest work is to support your child, your children at the school to make them feel this is what culture is all about.”
Auckland is gearing up to celebrate the 50th anniversary of ASB Polyfestthis April.
While Manapouri has been at the forefront of this iconic event, she expressed concern about the modern changes affecting traditional practices, particularly in performances that stray from authentic Cook Islands culture.