The long, narrow bay of Taipivai, Nuku Hiva; the place that inspired Herman Melville to write his famous novel, “Taipi”.  The word “taipivai” literally means “water full of sea” (tai=ocean; pi=full; vai=fresh water), describing what happens when the tide comes in and the ocean floods into the lower portion of the river, creating a semi-salty home for a variety of fish and plants.


Restored site in Taipivai

A giant tohua, or ceremonial dance platform, that was restored for a Marquesan festival in 2011 has now become a tourist attraction in the valley of Taipivai, Nuku Hiva.  Beautifully restored with reconstructed platforms, new locally carved stone tikis and traditional homes, the site stands as testament to the Marquesan cultural renaissance.

See more photos here.

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(from: http://www.oceanien.fr/article-taipivai-une-base-culturelle-112871816.html)