Taste of the Cook Islands returns to Te Tapora Kai - Cook Islands News (original) (raw)
Crafts by Mii Upu “Mrs Q” on display at Te Tapora Kai, Punanga Nui Market. MELINA ETCHES/26052713
Food lovers are invited to Te Tapora Kai at the Punanga Nui Market this morning for a special “Taste of the Cook Islands” pop-up food experience showcasing local cuisine, culture and entertainment.
Running from 9am to 12 noon, the event will feature a variety of traditional Cook Islands dishes, live music and cultural demonstrations, alongside the market’s usual selection of locally made crafts, fresh produce, artwork and jewellery.
Organised by the Cook Islands Tourism Corporation, the initiative aims to encourage both visitors and locals to visit Te Tapora Kai and increase foot traffic at the market.
Tourism Industry Development Coordinator Jean-Maree Nootai said eight new registered vendors would be joining the event, alongside the regular Friday food sellers and craft vendors.
Visitors will be able to enjoy local favourites including fresh produce, varaoa karo (angry bread), mitiore (grated coconut with seafood), ika mata (raw fish), poke (banana pudding with coconut cream), and rukau (taro leaves cooked in coconut cream), as well as other traditional dishes.
As part of the experience, five local itivaine will also be offering samples of Cook Islands cuisine from 9am to 12 noon, giving visitors the opportunity to taste a range of local flavours.
Adding to the cultural atmosphere, Peter Pokipoki will present a demonstration making coconut cream and weaving pare ukarau, while a live band will provide entertainment throughout the morning. The Tourism Corporation plans to continue the series of themed market events, with the next “Crafts of the Cook Islands” market scheduled for June 10, followed by another “Taste of the Cook Islands” event on June 19.