POLYNESIAN CULTURE: TIFAIFAI & BREADFRUIT Tifaifai


By Emily O'Rourke [tuh-fee-fee]


Amongst the countless crafts and exquisite jewelry pieces you'll fi nd at the local island markets, ornate quilts called tifaifai may catch your eye. Meaning "to mend" in Maori, these patchwork blankets were historically crafted from scraps of fabrics and pieces of old cloth, as fabric was considered a luxury and hard to come by on the remote islands. Tifaifai are made by the matriarchs, or mamas, of the local communities and are given as tokens of love, affection, and celebration.


Each blanket takes hours of hard work, and groups of mamas often work together to create one design. These get-togethers are considered sacred and are used to share tips, tricks, and secrets of the craft. Traditionally, seaside scenes were depicted on the designs; today, however, the designs can be as intricate as Polynesian tattoos. Know someone who is getting married or having a baby? Pick them up a tifaifai as a congratulatory gift while you are in the South Seas—and why not treat yourself to one, too?


Breadfruit [Uru] Tree The towering trunks of the breadfruit, or uru, tree can be seen throughout the islands, with their large orb-like fruits hanging low from long, arcing limbs. The bumpy, light-green fruit is a staple in Polynesian cuisine and played a huge role in colonizing the islands.


Distinct and unique, the cream-colored fl esh of the breadfruit takes on the taste profi les of both a fruit and vegetable, making it extremely versatile. Immature breadfruit is often sliced and cooked, while fully ripe breadfruit is sweeter and creamier and can be found in pies and fl an.


Once considered a super fruit, it is often a substitution for potatoes in recipes due to its similar texture and taste. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, it’s a healthy (and delicious) island snack!


credit: tahitiheritage.pf


Try breadfruit while in the islands or while on board The Gauguin. It is featured on the menu on Polynesian night when it is in season.


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