Te Varua O Moana Nui A Hiva

Te Varua o Moana Nui a Hiva—The Great Spirit of the Pacific—is the newest program of the Spirit of the Pacific Cultural Society, created in response to the incredible growth of our Tahitian classes and community. Since our school began in 1999, we have offered instruction in Hula, Tahitian, and Māori dance. When our school formally became a hālau in 2002, our Tahitian and Māori programs were separated from Hula to allow each tradition to be taught with the authenticity, care, and cultural integrity they deserve.

Today, that dedication has led to something truly special: a standalone Tahitian school grounded in excellence, cultural accuracy, and deep respect for the people and traditions of Tahiti. Te Varua o Moana Nui a Hiva honours the same lineage and values that guide our hālau, while carving out space for Tahitian dance to flourish under its own identity.

Our teaching team includes five award-winning instructors with over 30 years of combined experience, each committed to sharing the beauty, history, and spirit of Ori Tahiti. We are privileged to have learned from renowned cultural experts such as Mahealani Uchiyama, Tunui Tully, and now to be under the mentorship of Heiva champion Jade Makana Iulio. Their guidance strengthens our commitment to cultural responsibility and deepens the quality of what we bring to our students.

Te Varua o Moana Nui a Hiva offers classes for children, beginners, intermediate dancers, and advanced students, with pathways for both recreational and competitive dancers. No matter where a student begins, our focus remains the same: to cultivate skill, confidence, and cultural understanding while honouring the traditions of Tahitian dance.

We are dedicated to perpetuating the unique and rich cultural history of Tahiti. With authenticity and respect at the heart of everything we do, we strive to ensure our dancers—young and old—learn not only choreography, but the stories, values, and spirit that breathe life into Ori Tahiti.

Our Leadership Group

  • Jaeden 'Alohanani' Hanif

    PUPAHU

  • Louise 'Puaahi' Buonsante

    PUPAHU

  • Robin 'Puanane' Kauhane

    PUPAHU