The Tupapa Maraerenga Cultural Group emerged victorious as the winners of the 2024 Te Maeva Nui festival, held last week.

The annual event which culminated with the Constitution Day celebration on Sunday to mark Cook Islands’ 59^th year of self-governance, showcased a remarkable display of resilience and cultural pride.

Eight teams were vying for the title including Vaka Takitumu, Oire Nikao, Pukapuka Nassau, Mangaia Enua, Atiu Enua, Te Fuiga Oniva and Vaka Puaikura. 

Tupapa’s team leader, Steven Hiro, shared insights into their journey and the significance of their win during the prize-giving ceremony on Sunday.

Reflecting on their victory, Hiro emphasised the deeper meaning behind their participation. 

“I believe it’s more of the celebration of our culture, and I believe this will help bond our family together and our generation to get involved with our culture and just to be proud of where we come from. It’s our identity, and I believe it’s important for us to acknowledge that with our ancestors and so forth,” Hiro said.

Tupapa Maraerenga’s return to the festival was a significant moment, especially after their absence last year. 

Hiro explained that their comeback was part of a larger plan to build momentum for an even bigger performance next year. 

“Last year we did not have a team participating, and this year we decided to come back and do our build-up for the big one next year. So I believe this is just the beginning for Tupapa and for everyone in the Cook Islands in general.”

The group’s achievement was not only a win for themselves but also a source of pride for the broader community.

Hiro acknowledged the contributions of the outer islands, homelands and various tribes. 

“I also acknowledge our outer islands and our homelands and also our tribes this year. The link was there … it was a teamwork, and it was a good team support.”

Hiro credited the community’s drive and family support as crucial factors in their success.

“It was pretty much the community drive behind that, and with the support of the families that have partaken, it gave us the drive to continue with this,” he said. 

“The majority of the team is all youth, and that’s the one thing we’re trying to get involved with – getting more kids involved. “

Tupapa Maraerenga was the last team to enter the competition and managed to pull off an incredible feat with only five weeks of practice. 

Tupapa Maraerenga received $3000 prize money for finishing on top.

Atiu Enua came second and received a prize money of $2000 followed by Vaka Puaikura in third place receiving $1000. The rest of the teams won consolation prizes of $500 each.

The international groups that participated both in the float parade and the performance nights were also awarded as well as local groups such as the Boys Brigade and Girls Guide groups who participated in the float last week.