40th Kiribati Independence Celebration NZ - AKSI Item 1 Performance

[@archimedes6855]

I am from samoa and this is my first time watching a Kiribati dance absolutely beautiful mad love from you’re neighbouring pacific island of SAMOA! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@brancomctab1248]

HAMO BOII do you know that almost all i-Kiribati people can trace their ancestry to the Samoans who voyaged from Samoa and settled on the islands hundreds if not thousands of years ago? It happened during the time in Samoa known to the locals on these islands as “Uruakin te kai n tiku aba” (Roughly: “The breaking up of the tree of origin.”) Their arrival was not an invasion but more an assimilation with the existing locals. Inter-marriages took place and so the current population is the result of it. The first and maybe second generations of this immigrants constantly travel back and forth to Samoa to get timber not readily available on these islands to build big meeting houses known then and now as the “maneaba”, or they travel for some other reasons. In Tuvalu, the people there did recall how people from Kiribati constantly stopped over to resupply on their way to and from Samoa during the old days. The second dance tells of a high ranking or chiefly lady known as Nei Kimoa-Uea who voyaged from Samoa to Buariki, in North Tarawa. It is a well known but long story and in this second dance, there is a verse that says: “Manangan Nei Kimoa-Uea mai iaon Tamoa ....” (Translated as “the voyage of Lady Kimoa-Uea from Samoa ...” If one listens to the lyrics starting at 10:30, one will hear it being sung and it gets repeated afterwards as at 12:15.

[@PTOOMALATAI206]

@@brancomctab1248 WOW!! Never heard this story. AMAZING!!!! thank you for that history. Beautiful.

[@TM686K]

@@PTOOMALATAI206 Unfortunately most Samoans aren't told about their intermingling with Kiribati back in the days. You still hear little bits in the names in fact a Samoan Auckland Blues player who sadly passed away this year bore the surname Tamoa-i-eta, which was the old Kiribati name for Western Samoa meaning Northerly Samoa as opposed to Tamoa-i-nano the name for American Samoa meaning Southerly Samoa. The migration of Batuku was the last of Samoa's expedition to Kiribati which happened when he was expelled out of Samoa for still wanting to practice cannibalism and human sacrifice in Tutuila which the Chiefs of Upolu and Savaii outlawed after a High Chief was served his own son. Batuku's name in Samoa was most likely Tuifeai when connecting remnants of oral accounts. Batuku is poetically associated in Kiribati with skulls and fire which correlates with Tuifeai's use of human skulls as signals and decorations in his domain and his association with fire being correlated to him being a descendant of Tuifiti (Fiji) where his certain clan was widely known for walking across mounds of fire most likely from Beqa.

[@PTOOMALATAI206]

@@TM686K WOW!! thank you for a piece of history/knowledge. I heard of the cannibalism part but not too much of it. How awesome this would've been learning here in America in history class but i get it. I'm just glad people like you A B still have the knowledge of our history and when I say our I mean the people of pacific. so much history yet so much has been lost over time. again, I appreciate you responding and taking the time out to share a piece of history with me. thank you.

[@MsPakir]

A B 👏👏👏👏thank you for sharing

[@orlissan6088]

I am from the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico. Upon watching this video, I immediately felt a connection with the heart and soul of a people. I do not understand their language. But I do understand the love and passion for their island as expressed in their song, dance, cries, and tears. Maybe all of us islanders share a common language deep in our hearts. This may possibly be the most beautiful thing I've seen and heard on KZbin.

[@TuiandTemari]

For those unfamiliar with Kiribati (Indigenous name: Tungaru), here’s some context to understand the depth of its cultural dance traditions. Unlike many dance styles, the ultimate goal of Kiribati dance is to reach the human soul-it’s not about mere entertainment or evoking physical emotions. This is why most Kiribati dances don’t begin with an explosion of action or fast pace. Instead, they start slowly and gradually build up, getting faster, louder, and more intense as the song is repeated. This slow beginning and gradual buildup are all about aiming to touch a higher, spiritual plane rather than just a human-level response. Preparation for these dances spans at least three months and involves both physical and ritualistic practices, like dawn dips in the ocean and strict dietary rules (e.g., avoiding fish), reflecting the dedication and seriousness required. The dance usually follows a four-item structure, with each part having a distinct purpose: Te Kamaaraara (slow and graceful song) serves as the initial release of energy, helping dancers manage their intensity before the main event. Kanako Bunno (marching in dance) is meant to overcome fear and nervousness, especially in competitive settings where groups face off. The Main Item is the most intense part, often so demanding that dancers may collapse or pass out (very common back home), making the first item (which you’re watching now) crucial for warming up. The Relaxing Item concludes the performance with joy, allowing dancers and te anaa (singers) to wind down, followed by a repeat of the second item as a final march out. Now that you know, this is just the opening item so be sure to check out the remaining three items that follow! Hope this context helps you appreciate more of this impressive performance by the AKSI group from Auckland, Aotearoa (NZ). Watching from Ohio, USA, but having grown up on a Kiribati outer island, I have deep respect for this group and their beautiful showcase of our Tungaru traditions in NZ.

[@tamasiitonga]

I am a Tongan and this is the first time watching Kiribati dance performance; defines our traditions and culture throughout the Pacific which makes us unique!! 'Ofa Atu from TONGA -

[@ritatitautua]

Thanks Sam, the second dance/song is about a beautiful demi-god chief/princess Nei Kimoauea (Miss Kimoauea) who lived in Samoa this is before the great dispersion of Polynesia ~1250AD

[@yvonneblanco4820]

I'm from Torres strait first time watching Kiribati dancing performance ❤

[@richieredw2142]

I´m Jamaican...and I think the dance and the whole Kiribati Culture is awesome.. Nuff Respect fome one Island to another...

[@WarchiefTua]

if the world could only see the beauty of eachothers cultures like this amazing performance, the world would be more heavenly. great dance kiribati, love from your pacific brothers and sisters

[@RiEbon70]

I'm from the Marshall Islands and these people are our sister islands. Last week we did a Stroll the Atolls in Springdale, Arkansas and when they performed, the American crowds were very impressed. Proud islander here .

[@teejayholdings]

My mother's people....Amazing performance...Love from Solomons

[@ovininavukitu3741]

Wow so beautiful, I'm from Fiji and I really love this Kiribati dance💛❤

[@Kahumpton11]

WOW! This is beautiful. Appreciate you all my Pacific cousins. The emotion and passion is so strong here...wow.

[@ritatitautua]

Thank you for your comments and for watching my channel

[@NicholsnDimes]

I love the shouting's! It reminds me of Church and catching the Holy Spirit! What a sacred experienc to witness, thank you for sharing.

[@paealakei-hughes2437]

Absolutely beautiful ❣❣👏👏👏 I am Tongan and I find the Kiribati dance movingly graceful.

[@gusnauci7795]

I got the chills" in a good way, never seen a dance performance so emotional... Love it....

[@venitakanavulautogia625]

Beautiful culture and customs Kiribati! From a Sāmoan!

[@ltmg9832]

Respect from a Tongan! That was beautiful! ✊🏽❤️🙏🏾

[@mistyblue4418]

This is absolutely gorgeous I had one friend from Kiribati but didn't really know much about the culture. .the singing the dancing just beautiful

[@raymundperalta419]

So beautiful n the sound of the heritage n tradition of our ancestors our neighbors princess Kiribati wil b vanished forever underneath the water 2100 people has to move to another location n welcome them ❤❤❤❤

[@nanchu2151]

They should be invited to perform at Pacifica festivals.Their culture is alive n well in NZ..

[@nanchu2151]

My Kiribati relies .am from Fiji n most live in Rabi by Taveuni Island Beautiful dancers n singers.Natural musicians.Bi lingual too.Beautiful people ❤them . Lived a long way from their islands but have managed to keep their culture n dancers etc.Most drink kava and are fearless fishers..Koraba my peps..Rock on beautiful people..

[@special-selfdefense-system]

Schön, dass es noch solche Traditionen, Bräuche und Völker gibt.

[@Miistr_E]

GOTTA LOVE OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS FROM THE NORTH PACIFIC 🔥

[@georgeredfernsirivalu8528]

After watching this powerful dance,it just reminded me how lucky iam to be a Pacific Islander,a proud one I would say,Vinaka vaka levu Kiribati

[@AbieraBaikawa]

umm what vinaka vaka levu means pls i dont know what it means maybe because im also from kiribati

[@laisadakuni1069]

I loved this performance from beginning to end. Had to rewind a bit of the parts it was so good to watch. Just love how rich and unique the cultures in the Pacific Islands are. 💙 We all should be VERY PROUD of where we come from and what our cultures represent and the history behind it. 💙 Amazing performance 😊

[@yuuujiroy9773]

I'm so impressed! what a strong and beautiful songs!😊from 🇯🇵

[@nefariousnymeria2065]

My dad's side is from Kiribati so I'm half but I never really learned about the culture because my dad was a deadbeat who left when I was 5. This is awesome to see, I always wanted to do this sort of dance for polyfest but my college only participated in the Maori, Samoan and Tongan dances. 😔

[@mkfleez5319]

@@santospaul8103 there’s a stage at polyfest called diversity stage where all cultures outside Polynesia and those within Polynesia who don’t have their own stage can perform. The most common groups you’d see at diversity would be Fijian, Korean, Chinese, Tuvaluan and more recently, Kiribati The 5 major cultures at Polyfest that have their own designated stages are Maori, Samoa, Tonga, Cook Islands and Niue

[@nymeria213]

@@mkfleez5319 yeah but most schools only participate in the main dances.

[@dist27rictornothing73]

This is so beautiful😍post some more please❤️much love from Samoa💯

[@seki4god]

JUSY WOW so BEAUTIFUL to listen to I feel so connected to it, GOD BLESS KIRIBITI AIGA💯🕊

[@toka2528]

hi.. in our Kiribati language we say KAINGA

[@seki4god]

@@toka2528 respects from samoa aiga, alofa atu

[@rBJ817]

Omg. I love this lady ❤️🇲🇭

[@butaritaricfc6781]

Iaaa a bon rangi n niko taan mwaiee aikai ni kabane ao n reitaki ma te anaa e a bon nag karokonano. ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️

[@ngamckenna76]

Really love watching the dances and listening to the songs and chants..very moving. Beautiful performances overall. Thank you for sharing it with the world.

[@ritatitautua]

Thank you very much!

[@ngamckenna76]

@@ritatitautua You are very welcome..looking forward for more..keep em coming.

[@nupaiaktalake]

Very, very powerful. Thank you for this video.

[@josephteuea296]

captivating overall pure passion ❤❤❤

[@teororotoaiauea3316]

e rarabwa te mwaiee ao te anaa...a bon rootaki iai nanora ao a bn tiinako naba ranni matara iai..e rangi n tamaroa te mwaie ma te anaa. kam rarabwa ao kateimatoa ami mwaiee ae aekan anne....kam rabwa

[@francismuriithi7297]

It's emotional 😭😭 😭

[@joitongei]

Absolutely beautiful!😭♥️♥️

[@alipatevakaloa8377]

im samon but this was the best dance ever that ive seen olufatu e

[@kavanikavani9213]

I did my dna test so I guess these are my people. Wow❤️

[@micronesian8015]

kavani Kavani dude what were your percentages?

[@kavanikavani9213]

Micro Nesian I am 40 percent Kiribati 50 percent White American and 5-10 percent European. I was adopted at a young age so this is why I took a dna test.

[@micronesian8015]

kavani Kavani that’s awesome man! You should go back home one day. It’s beautiful

[@minnieee123]

What DNA test did you take? Never heard one that contains Kiribati. Ancestry.com labels Kiribati under Polynesia so it’s not that specific.

[@kavanikavani9213]

Micro Nesian thanks brotha! And yes I would like to visit!!!

[@jmjm1920]

I'm Tongan Kiribati have amazing dancing movements so unique like Micronesia 👌🙏

[@martintamoaieta9707]

The singing 😩😍

[@lauiloa]

Can someone explain the screaming please?

[@ritatitautua]

@@lauiloa the emotion you're filled with, this is the duty of the singers to invite the dancing spirit in preparation for the main part of the dance.

[@maibauro3151]

AKSI winner this year

[@pualegasulaumau4269]

Lesgooooo aksi #marakei🤩💙

[@tatikatione583]

Lesssgooo AKSI ❣️

[@shantykatipa2507]

Ataahua tenei mahi whakangahau, nei te mihi ki te whanau Kiribati from Aotearoa (New Zealand)

[@miriareu]

Beautiful. 🙏🏽

[@rotiaanaamankoshikprasad8875]

Proud to be Ikiribati kam kakateke man bwanaroi

[@hanszkaiviti5207]

Flawless ❤❤❤

[@ptschaumkel]

They are so similar to old Tongan chats the way they sing and dance.

[@ritatitautua]

Hi Tevita thanks for watching my video do you have some video you can share that displays the similarities with the old Tongan chants? Be interested to know thanks

[@idkwtdwt]

Iaaa Ianangurika ara kamataku back in Kiribati😭 euerake nanora lol ❤

[@tibtauman]

Kam tonu ao kam tika kaain AKSI aion ami kai. Taua teina anne ao kateimatoa ami tarena nte mwamwaie iaon NZ.

[@kiumakeitetioti7370]

Wow amazing

[@danielbrandmilnemook8462]

MarsScotBritsKiriPohn 🇲🇭🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇬🇧🇰🇮🇫🇲

[@waihale]

very emotional and beautiful

[@anacaroline5411]

Yep.... 😍😍😍😍

[@johnheidim2877]

Hello, it's been awhile since I've been to an independence. My father is from Kiribati. Will you be attending this year's one? Would like to attend it. Thanks Heidi.

[@HolyMoly686]

Kiribati traditional dance ❤️❤️❤️ kam tonu

[@tamartakia5527]

Absolutely love

[@btsarmy-en5en]

Love my culture and my auntys and uncles that are dancing there🥰❤

[@b2stparadise]

Oh! An army from kiribati?! I didn't know it was famous there. And love my culture too 💜 beign raised in Europe I don't know much about our culture, so I'm in a journey to discover my other half 🥺💜

[@kirata.temaewe.769]

Aio te Waa mai kiribati ke teie mai kiribati?

[@apeluenesi9861]

Beautiful

[@theresakanotaake6678]

Eaera ngkami kunan au uncle are te Iotebwa...kam rabwa e ruoruo te anaa

[@natemepzzzpxo3416]

Anee Tunee from FISHER&PAYKEL HEALTHCARE stop crying lol😂

[@rotiaanaamankoshikprasad8875]

E a teke burouu ni bwanami ma teaq ae karokonano irouia taan mwaie

[@levitalamese5030]

Love this dance

[@timoteojohnson3564]

😍😍😍😍

[@ultimateth1nker_]

OMG WHEN ARE THE CHILDREN DANCING😭😭😭 I WANNA SEE MY SELF😭😭😭

[@samoanpride9760]

Why are the girls crying please

[@ritatitautua]

its the emotion they're filled with, it is common to all kiribati traditional dancers before/during/afterwards to cry as the emotions caused by the singing gets to them, this is the duty of the singers to invite the dancing spirit in preparation for the main part of the dance

[@samoanpride9760]

Thank you😘

[@brancomctab1248]

@Samoan Pride this warming up song is generally called "te kamanene". This is the time they can let go of their emotions and build up their dancing spirits or energy so when they commence dancing, they are a great sight to behold due to that expressed energy as in the case of these dancers. The worst thing a dancer would do is to move like a robot, void of energy and passion! Should they move in a robotic manner, the audience would make fun of them and comment that they must have eaten fish prior to their dance! Male dancers don’t generally do the crying 😢. It’s a feminine thing I think 🤔.

[@tungarunakoiaang1795]

Some of the things Kiribati dancers do in addition to practice makes them very susceptible to being emotionally attached to the dance, the main one being the use of very old rituals. Whenever someone is seen as a good dancer in Kiribati they're often presumed to have a parent or family member who is very good at rituals and in most cases it's true.

[@selainetawessel6885]

Hi Samoan Pride, also the songs are very very old( ancient songs) passed from one generation to another. One of the song is actually a song about a beautiful woman named Nei Kimoauea travelled from Samoa, she got children with King Kirata from Tarawa, lived happily ever after lols I leave other parts of the history to another I-Tungaru who can finish it, Tekeraoi ngaira n bane!

[@killaboii4316]

🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥❤️❤️❤️

[@suramyawijeesinghe8123]

cn someone pls tell me the reason why is she shouting?

[@tearimakatekeimoa1675]

U. I think some of my family was there

[@satishmpgaveer4457]

Hi very good looking

[@butaritari23]

E nang karokonano ❤

[@colamieita7819]

😭😭😭✊✊✊✊✊✊❤❤❤❤❤

[@molinakinere6625]

My people:)

[@kirisraoi7658]

a rang nikoniko man banaraoi

[@pasifikapoii7304]

😭😭😭🇰🇮❤❤

[@oksanagumerova5310]

❤❤❤❤

[@madetobelieve2345]

It’s us

[@nicodemustema2706]

Well I see someone I know 😎😒😖

[@franciscozamora6697]

Día de la juventud

[@roselamese2869]

E bon kaota tamneina raoi te MC nte tai anne ma anuana n Tom Cruz imataia kain ASKI

[@madetobelieve2345]

🇹🇻🇹🇻🇹🇻🇹🇻🇹🇻

[@katrinadespell2228]

Weird culture 🥴

[@micronesian8015]

Like your face? Is that why you need makeup and that Snapchat filter?

[@kavanikavani9213]

Micro Nesian dude fr😂😂😂 how tf u gonna put make up on and then throw a filter on at the same time💀🤣

[@joshjetton9299]

Yo mama is weird period

[@fufu.holicc4966]

Nei ei e kuna te buta

[@btsarmy-en5en]

Your family's weird🤓