About this movie
“Te Pito o Te Henua” (The Navel of the World) tells the story of the community behind Rapa Nui’s largest and most colorful annual Indigenous celebration, the Tāpati Rapa Nui Festival. Honoring ancient rites and competitions, Rapa Nui families participate in nine days of athletic feats, cultural demonstrations and ceremonies paying respect to the land, water and other natural beings of the island. They also crown a Queen to represent her people for a year throughout Polynesia and on the world stage. The film traces the journey of 19-year-old candidate Vaitiare and her family as they join work to earn her the crown and represent this small but well-known island as its people fight for increased autonomy and recognition on the world stage. Through intimate character portraits, behind-the-curtain moments and heartfelt musical performances, “Te Pito o Te Henua” reveals the true meaning of Tāpati and the deep connections the Rapa Nui share with their lands and waters.
We have no ads — this is a way to keep the site alive 🙏
Unlocking share options…
Quick facts
Your reaction
Questions about The Navel of the World
📲 Send the link to a WhatsApp or Telegram group.
Once someone clicks it, your access is unlocked automatically.
Unlocking share options…
Checking activity...
Still waiting…
You can leave safely — we'll keep checking.
Link clicked! Access unlocked.
🎬 Share to your group — instant access, no sign-up required
