Te Maeva Nui: National Event that celebrates Cook Islands cultural heritage

Te Maeva Nui Festival is a week-long national culture and dance event held each year to celebrate the August 4th birthday of the Cook Islands as an independent nation. It is the cultural highlight of the Cook Islands year.

This National Event has grown over the years drawing international visitors from across the globe to Rarotonga for a week of cultural festivities and celebrations through the arts, crafts, music, song, dance and local food. Our Cook Islands people are our richest Asset.  The whole Nation literally comes to a standstill as we celebrate our unique culture during Te Maeva Nui.

Can’t make it to Te Maeva Nui this year? Not a problem, the week long celebration is held every year so there is still time to plan your visit around Te Maeva Nui.

2020:  31st July – 8th August
2021:  30th July – 7th August 

Enjoy highlights from the 2018 Te Maeva Nui below or for more coverage and highlights visit The Ministry of Cultural Development’s website.