In the Austral Islands art and crafts are usually the domain of women. From generation to generation, the inhabitants of Tubuai, Raivavae, Rurutu, Rimatara and Rapa have repeated exactly the same gestures to weave hats and baskets from pandanus leaves and reeds. The Austral Islands are renowned for their craftsmanship and in Tahiti, the chance to buy the latest creations at the annual Salon des Australes is eagerly awaited
Rimatara, Maria, Marotiri and Rapa, islands far from anywhere.
Rimatara - © Frédéric CristolThe pride of Rimatara, is an endemic parakeet, which is called Te Uravaero e te Moho, (the stealer of colors) because of its bright green, red and violet plumage. In days gone by, the island’s chiefs wore these feathers as part of their ceremonial dress. Keep your eyes peeled for these exotic birds while you’re in Rimatara.
Maris Islands in French PolynesiaClose to Rimatara, the Maria Islands are uninhabited, except by colonies of birds.
Marotiri Polynésie FrançaiseLike the Maria Islands, the Bass Island of Marotiri is uninhabited except by birds, notably the Tropicbird.
Rapa - Brut The ExplorersRapa has more than 500 residents, but if you want to meet them you have to go by boat. Also known as Rapa Iti(to distinguish it from Easter Island, which is Rapa Nui to Polynesians), Rapa is the most southerly of the Austral Islands. An oceanic climate means reasonably mild weather all year round. Surprisingly, the main fruit here is apples, not coconuts! The cargo ship Tuhaa Pae only visits once a month, so be careful not to miss it!
