Exclusive to the island of Aitutaki, Koni Raoni translates to ‘dance around’ and involves the host village travelling through the villages on the island, dancing, singing and receiving donations during the Christmas period on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day to raise funds for their respective communities. Melina Etches reports.
The stunning island of Aitutaki co-hosted the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting for the second time, their first being in 2012, welcoming regional leaders this week for their retreat in the island’s picturesque lagoon.
Aside from helping to fund a series of scholarships for disadvantaged children, sponsors of VIR’s Swing for the Kids charity golf tournament are focusing on creating job opportunities for the students after graduation.
A group from Aitutaki is preparing to attend the 200th Anniversary of the arrival of Christianity on the neighbouring islands of Atiu, Mitiaro, Mauke and Rarotonga.