Mauke is going all out this year participating in all five items – choir, Imene Tuki, Ute, Action Song and Ura Pau – at this year’s Te Maeva Nui cultural festival which starts with the float parade tomorrow.

Leader of the group, Akaiti Purea said: “Although it had been a struggle to get the number of boys we needed, we managed and now we have enough for our team.”

“Everyone chips in where they can such as helping out with the costumes and the dancers work together to choreograph the items.”

Reverend Michael Akava from Mauke flew to Rarotonga to assist with the choir practice and will conduct the number on the performing night next week.

Earlier in the year, the group held discussions about taking part in Te Maeva Nui celebrations following an exodus of young Cook Islanders to seasonal works in New Zealand.

Purea said they were determined to maintain their participation in the festival each year despite knowing this time around there would be issues in gathering enough people.

“Culture is important to us and Te Maeva Nui helps keep the connection to our culture especially for our young ones and we are proud to be participating.”