In a warm display of traditional Cook Islands hospitality, Makea Nui Takau Susan Ariki and the kopu tangata (extended family) are inviting members of the public to a special “umu” feast this afternoon at 4pm at Te Are Karioi Nui/National Auditorium.

The feast is being held to share the generous “kave kura” (gifted food) from Teariki Heather of T&M Heather, presented on behalf of Vaka Puaikura during the lead-up to the recent investiture of Susan Love as Makea Nui Takau Susan Ariki.

In a festive island-style procession, a bus of drummers led the way for an entourage of two large trucks heavily laden with food, destined for the traditional earth oven at Taputapuātea.

To ensure everything was ready for cooking, a Bobcat (excavator) was brought along to help unload the containers of food.

“This ‘kave kura’ was part of the gift presented before the investiture,” explained Tinirau Tamarua. “But the volume of food was so great, it simply couldn’t all fit into the umu.”

Rather than letting the food go to waste, the decision was made to cook the remaining provisions and invite the entire community to enjoy a shared meal – continuing the spirit of unity and generosity shown during the investiture celebrations.

Makea Nui Takau Susan Ariki expressed her heartfelt thanks to Teariki Heather and Vaka Puaikura for their overwhelming generosity and welcomes everyone to join the feast this afternoon.

The investiture ceremony, held just weeks ago, was attended by a distinguished gathering of guests including Sir Tom Marsters, the King’s Representative, and Lady Tuaine Marsters, as well as members of the Ui Ariki, Ui Mataiapo, Ui Rangatira, and extended family and supporters from across the Cook Islands.

It marked a milestone in the long-standing legal and familial disputes over the rightful holder of the Makea Nui Ariki title, which has been vacant since the death of Makea Nui Teremoana Ariki on March 9, 1994.

A legal challenge remains pending in the Land Court, seeking to identify the rightful titleholder.