Miss Cook Islands, Tiare Henry-Anguna, recently attended the Takurua Ta’u Umu, a cultural event in the Cook Islands that celebrates traditional cooking and the passing of cultural knowledge to younger generations.

The umu is a traditional Polynesian earth oven, where food is cooked underground using heated stones, covered with leaves and soil to trap the heat. This method has been used for centuries across many Pacific cultures and remains an important symbol of community, heritage and shared meals.

During the event, young participants, known locally as tamariki (children), took part in preparing the umu, learning the techniques and cultural significance behind the practice. Watching the youth prepare the oven with care and pride, Tiare described the experience as a powerful reminder that Cook Islands traditions continue to thrive through the next generation.

“As Miss Cook Islands, it means so much to witness and support our youth as they embrace the values and heritage that shape who we are as a people,” she shared.

Events like Takurua Ta’u Umu play an important role in preserving cultural identity in the Cook Islands, ensuring that traditions such as the umu are actively practiced and proudly shared with the world.