Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center was an amazing experience.  We had a guy working the information booth guide us through making a plan.  There is so much to see and take in that it is difficult to do unless you have a plan.  These photos aren't in any particular order.

This Tongan man is playing the nose flute.  He was really good but why with your nose?

The inside of a home in the Hawaiian village. 

The exterior of the block where the center is.  

Inside of the building of the Samoan village.  There was a presentation that was quite humorous. 

Inside of a King's home.

The Tongan presentation with three "volunteers."  Very fun to watch.

One of the first sights to see upon getting in the canoe ride up to the Hawaiian village. 

Another view of a King's home.

This boat was given by the people of New Zealand, the Mouris.  It is 40 feet long.

Another view from our "canoe".

The Hakai done by the New Zealanders. 

We were able to witness a Tahitian wedding.  

The bride and groom were dressed in such fancy ceremonial clothing and headdresses.  An interesting fact that rather than saying, "I do." the Tahitans say "no" in their language.  The question asked of them is, "Will you ever leave me?"

After they were married, all the married couples were able to stand up and face one another holding hands.  We were asked that same question and given the "no" answer in their language.  I was unprepared for the feelings that surged through me as I looked into my sweetheart's eyes and told him I would never leave him. I fell in love with him all over again.  It was a highlight of our day.

This man is from Fiji.  The international date line runs right through their largest island.

This Hawaiian dancer never gave us any other look on his face but this one.  Very stern!

Riding past Samoa in our canoe were these coconuts.  We learned about the palm tree and coconuts from the man below.

He is 54 and works at BYU-Hawaii.  He told us all about Samoan culture in a very funny way.  At the end, he climbed a palm tree and did a fire dance!  It was amazing to say the least. 

She is also from Fiji.  While there we played along with the music with by pounding some large sticks on the ground.  They were hollow with only one end open.

The boat is what the one in Moana is fashioned after.  

This Fijian man did some sort of dance for us.  The singers were very good.  Great harmonies!  Such a fun day.  We began at 12:45 and didn't stop until it was time to go to the luau.  We learned how to throw a spear properly and watched some wood carving.  We toured the first mission home.  It was an action packed day!