The tale of the turtle and the shark – a Samoan legend
Faʻafetai (thank you) to Tipa Galeai, Manager of the Samoa Village at the Polynesian Cultural Center, for this contribution to our series on Polynesian legends. Samoans tell the story of an old blind woman, named Fonueau, of Salega, Savaii (Western Samoa). She had one...
Maui creates the Islands of Hawaii – a Hawaiian legend
Read all about Maui, one of the most recognized demi-gods throughout the cultures of Polynesia. This is because his tales traveled with the early Polynesian explorers as they moved from island nation to island nation. We at the Polynesian Cultural Center hope you...
The Red Prawns of Vatulele – a Fijian legend
The following legend has numerous versions. We took ours from the former Island Manager of the Fiji Village at the Polynesian Cultural Center, Inoke Suguturaga. There is an ancient story about the beautiful daughter of a chief. Her name, Yalewan-ni-Cagi-Bula, means...
Iraia Bailey: Language is the essence of culture
Iraia Bailey, originally from Aotearoa (New Zealand), is currently working as a cultural ambassador for the Island of Aotearoa at the Polynesian Cultural Center (Center). He conveys his love for his culture to all he meets. After many years on the journey to...
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