Deeply rooted in their beliefs, Polynesians see spirituality as an omnipresent thread running through their daily lives. Whether it’s before sharing a meal, taking part in a pirogue competition, or even before a political meeting, prayer is a common practice that testifies to the close connection between the inhabitants of these islands and their convictions.

Attending one of our Sunday Masses, whether Catholic or Protestant, is a unique experience. Religious hymns echo throughout the churches, creating an atmosphere of fervor and spirituality. Watching the faithful dressed in their Sunday best, in honor of the sacredness of the moment, is an inescapable insight into daily life on our fenua.

However, Polynesian beliefs are not limited to religious practice. They also encompass a world of myth and spirituality that permeates every aspect of life. Veneration of the gods, respect for marae (sacred places), belief in the existence of mana (mysterious, mythical energy), the protective power of tiki (statues of the gods) and visits from tupapa’u (ghosts) are all elements that shape the rich spiritual fabric of Polynesia.

Polynesians live in harmony with these beliefs, integrating them into their traditions, rituals and daily interactions. These ancestral convictions help shape a unique culture, where spirituality is a living force that transcends the tangible and expresses itself through customs, arts and rituals, creating a profound spiritual experience for those lucky enough to immerse themselves in it.