Huahine: The Garden Island of French Polynesia

• HelloIa ora na
  [Ya-oh-rah-nah]
• GoodbyeNana
  [Nah-nah]
• YesE
  [Ay]
• NoAita
  [Eye-tah]
• Please/You're welcomeMaeva
  [Mah-eh-vah]
• Thank youMauruuru
  [Ma-roo-roo]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [Par-dohn]
• How are you?Aha'ea to'oe?
  [Ah-ha-eh-ah toh-eh]
• Fine. And you?Maita'i. Oe?
  [My-tie. O-eh]
• Do you speak English?Ua haere oe i te reo anglais?
  [Oo-ah hair-eh oy ee teh ray-oh ahn-glay]
• I don't understandAita au maita'i
  [Eye-tah oh my-tie]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseUa here au e hiohio i te menu, maruru
  [Oo-ah hair-eh oh ay hee-oh-hee-oh ee teh may-noo mah-roo-roo]
• I don't eat meatAita au haere i te kai
  [Eye-tah oh hair-eh ee teh kye]
• Cheers!Manuia!
  [Mah-noo-ee-ah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseUa here au e solliciter, maruru
  [Oo-ah hair-eh oh ay soh-lee-see-tay mah-roo-roo]

• Help!Aide!
  [Eye-day]
• Go away!Haere i te pape!
  [Hair-eh ee teh pah-pay]
• Call the Police!Haere i te marae!
  [Hair-eh ee teh mah-rah-eh]
• Call a doctor!Haere i te taata here!
  [Hair-eh ee teh tah-ah-tah hair-eh]
• I'm lostIa outu au
  [Ya oh-too oh]
• I'm illIa oraraa au
  [Ya oh-rah-rah oh]

• I'd like to buy...Ua here au e hoko...
  [Oo-ah hair-eh oh ay hoe-koh]
• I'm just lookingUa here au e haere na
  [Oo-ah hair-eh oh ay hair-eh nah]
• How much is it?E hia moni ia?
  [Ay hee-ah moh-nee ee-ah]
• That's too expensiveTei te moni reka
  [Tay tay moh-nee ray-kah]
• Can you lower the price?E haere oe e te faahoraa i te moni?
  [Ay hair-eh oy ay tay fah-ah-hoh-rah ee teh moh-nee]

• What time is it?E aha te hia?
  [Ay ah-ha tay hee-ah]
• It's one o'clockE te hia e tahi
  [Ay teh hee-ah ay tah-hee]
• Half past (10)E te hia e hapati
  [Ay teh hee-ah ay hah-pah-tee]
• MorningPoipoi
  [Poy-poy]
• AfternoonAparaama
  [Ah-pah-rah-mah]
• EveningAhiahi
  [Ah-hee-ah-hee]
• YesterdayArohe
  [Ah-roh-heh]
• TodayApa
  [Ah-pah]
• TomorrowApopo
  [Ah-poh-poh]
• 1Tahi
  [Tah-hee]
• 2Rua
  [Roo-ah]
• 3Toru
  [Toh-roo]
• 4Aha
  [Ah-hah]
• 5Rima
  [Ree-mah]
• 6Ono
  [Oh-noh]
• 7Fitu
  [Fee-too]
• 8Varu
  [Vah-roo]
• 9Iva
  [Ee-vah]
• 10Ahuru
  [Ah-hoo-roo]

• Where's a/the...?I hea te...?
  [Ee hey-ah teh]
• What's the address?E aha te tuhinga?
  [Ay ah-ha teh too-hee-ngah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?E haere oe e faaahaere mai ia oe (i te mahere)?
  [Ay hair-eh oy ay fah-ah-hair-eh my ay oh-ay ee-ah oh-eh ee teh mah-hair-ray]
• When's the next (bus)?I te aha te mau bus e haere mai?
  [Ee teh ah-ha teh mow boos ay hair-eh my]
• A ticket (to ....)E te moni e haere mai i te...
  [Ay teh moh-nee ay hair-eh my ee teh]

Huahine, an island in French Polynesia, was first settled by Polynesians over a thousand years ago. The island's earliest inhabitants brought with them their rich culture, including traditional navigation techniques, social structures, and religious practices. Ancient marae (temple sites) scattered across the island are a testament to Huahine's deep-rooted spiritual heritage.

In the 18th century, European explorers began to arrive in Huahine. Captain James Cook, one of the most famous explorers of the time, visited the island during his voyages in the Pacific. His encounters with the local people were documented and provided some of the first written records about Huahine and its culture.

Huahine became part of French Polynesia in the 19th century as European powers expanded their territories in the Pacific. The island's inclusion in the French colonial empire brought significant changes, including the introduction of new governance structures, economic systems, and cultural influences.

Huahine was once an independent kingdom ruled by its own monarchs. The Kingdom of Huahine was a significant political entity in the Society Islands, maintaining independence until the late 19th century when it was eventually incorporated into French Polynesia.

During World War II, Huahine, like many other islands in the Pacific, gained strategic importance. The island served as a base for Allied forces, and its airstrip was used for military operations. The war left a lasting impact on the island's infrastructure and its global connections.

Today, Huahine is known for its tranquil ambiance and well-preserved cultural heritage. The island is a popular destination for tourists seeking to explore traditional Polynesian culture, historical sites, and natural beauty. Efforts to preserve the island's history and environment continue to be a priority for both locals and visitors.

Huahine is home to some of the most significant archaeological sites in French Polynesia. Excavations have revealed ancient stone fish traps, marae, and other artifacts that provide insights into the island's early history and the ingenuity of its original inhabitants.

Historically, the economy of Huahine was based on agriculture, fishing, and craftsmanship. The island's fertile lands allowed for the cultivation of taro, yams, and breadfruit, which were staples of the local diet. Traditional fishing techniques and the crafting of tools and decorative items were also essential aspects of daily life.

Huahine hosts various cultural festivals and events that celebrate its rich heritage. These include traditional dance performances, music, and ceremonies that honor the island's ancestors and historical events. These festivals are vital in keeping the island's culture vibrant and alive.

Huahine is accessible by air and sea. The main gateway is Fa'a'ā International Airport in Papeete, Tahiti. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Huahine's Fare Airport, which typically takes about 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can travel by ferry from Papeete to Huahine, which is a longer but scenic journey.

Once on Huahine, getting around is fairly easy. Rental cars, scooters, and bicycles are available for hire and offer flexibility in exploring the island. Public buses operate on a limited schedule and primarily service local residents. Taxis are also available but can be relatively expensive. Many attractions are within walking distance if you’re staying in the main town of Fare.

The official currency is the CFP Franc (XPF). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but smaller establishments and local markets may require cash. ATMs are available in Fare and a few other locations around the island, so it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially when traveling to more remote areas.

Huahine is generally very safe for tourists. Petty crime like pickpocketing is rare but still possible, so keep an eye on your belongings. Avoid isolated areas after dark and always lock your vehicle. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 17 for the police, 18 for fire services, and 15 for medical emergencies. The main medical facility is the Huahine Hospital in Fare. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local villages. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering homes and religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful to drivers and other passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A friendly 'Ia Orana' (hello) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Huahine like a local, visit the local markets in Fare where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Polynesian crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their island. Don't miss visiting the Maeva archaeological sites and the sacred blue-eyed eels of Faie. For a unique experience, take a boat tour to explore the island’s hidden bays and lagoons.