Home » SPORTS TOURISM » Air Tahiti Steps Up for Hawaiki Nui Va’a 2025: Extra Flights and Involvement Shine a Spotlight on French Polynesia Sporting Spirit
Published on October 29, 2025
From October 29th to November 1st, 2025, the renowned Hawaiki Nui Va’a canoe race will take place in the Leeward Islands of French Polynesia, covering the picturesque islands of Huahine, Raiatea, Taha’a, and concluding in the mesmerizing Bora Bora lagoon. This iconic event, now in its 32nd edition, will attract over 200 teams from around the world, making it one of the largest and most prestigious canoe races in the Pacific. The race represents not only a sporting challenge but also a deep celebration of Polynesian heritage and tradition.
As the primary domestic carrier for French Polynesia, Air Tahiti is once again stepping in to support this significant event. The airline is facilitating travel for over 2,600 passengers, including competitors, supporters, and spectators, with more than 40 additional flights scheduled during the event period. With such a major logistical operation in place, Air Tahiti underscores its role as a vital partner in ensuring that the Hawaiki Nui Va’a remains accessible to both local communities and international participants.
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Air Tahiti’s Commitment to Sports Tourism
For Air Tahiti, supporting the Hawaiki Nui Va’a goes beyond just providing transportation. The airline’s commitment to this event exemplifies its deep connection to Polynesian culture and the broader sports tourism industry in the region. This commitment is not only reflected in the additional flights but also in Air Tahiti’s active participation in the race through its very own paddling team, Team Air Tahiti Va’a. The team’s success and involvement serve as a testament to the airline’s dedication to both the sport and the region.
By offering over 40 extra flights during the event, Air Tahiti ensures that all participants have easy and reliable access to the various islands hosting the race. The added flights will also help cater to the increased demand for travel to the Leeward Islands, with a particular focus on peak departure days, such as Sunday, November 2nd, when 17 flights will operate from Bora Bora. These flights will run late into the evening to ensure smooth departures for all attendees, contributing significantly to the success of the event from a logistics perspective.
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Handling the Logistics: Increased Staffing and Operational Efforts
Managing an increase of over 40 flights during the event period requires meticulous planning and substantial staffing resources. In response to the demand, Air Tahiti is mobilizing a total of 80 flight personnel, including pilots and flight attendants, to ensure smooth operations. To support this effort, more than 60 ground staff will be stationed at Tahiti-Faa’a International Airport, with additional personnel deployed across the islands to handle check-ins and boarding processes.
Special arrangements will be made during high-traffic departure days, with up to 15 extra agents stationed at the airport. This attention to detail ensures that Air Tahiti can accommodate the surge in passengers and maintain the efficiency needed for a successful event. Despite the logistical challenges, including the complex flow of passengers—many planes will be full in one direction and nearly empty on the return—Air Tahiti remains committed to ensuring that the race proceeds without hindrance.
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The Importance of the Hawaiki Nui Va’a for Sports Tourism
The Hawaiki Nui Va’a is not only an important event for the local community but also a significant attraction for sports tourism. Every year, this prestigious race draws participants from all over the world, including teams from France, New Caledonia, Hawaii, and Hong Kong. This international participation highlights the global appeal of the event and its potential to drive tourism to French Polynesia.
For many tourists, attending the Hawaiki Nui Va’a provides an opportunity to experience the Polynesian way of life and the cultural significance of canoeing to the region. The event attracts not only athletes and enthusiasts of the sport but also visitors looking to witness the endurance and skill involved in this ancient Polynesian tradition. It offers a unique blend of sport and culture, providing an enriching experience for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the spirit of Polynesia.
Air Tahiti Va’a: A Symbol of Polynesian Identity
Beyond its logistical support, Air Tahiti also plays an active role in the Hawaiki Nui Va’a through its paddling team, Team Air Tahiti Va’a. The team’s success in the 2024 edition of the race, where they finished in second place overall, highlights the airline’s commitment to the sport and the Polynesian community. This team is made up of Air Tahiti employees and local athletes, further bridging the connection between the airline and the region’s sporting culture.
The team consists of senior, junior, and cadet categories, including a women’s team. Under the leadership of coach Matahi Tapatoa, also an employee of Air Tahiti, the team will showcase a mix of seasoned paddlers and rising stars. Junior paddlers such as Chance Tavita from Rangiroa, Heetini Owen from Huahine, and Paipaimoana Opeta from Taha’a are expected to make a significant impact, symbolizing the future of Polynesian paddling.
Air Tahiti’s Role in Promoting Polynesian Culture
Through its unwavering support for the Hawaiki Nui Va’a, Air Tahiti plays a vital role in promoting Polynesian culture on a global scale. The event is a celebration of Polynesian identity and unity, and the airline’s involvement ensures that it remains a significant cultural milestone. By connecting the islands and facilitating access to the event, Air Tahiti continues to reinforce its commitment to supporting both local traditions and the sports tourism industry.
The involvement of international teams further enriches the event’s global appeal, showcasing French Polynesia’s ability to unite cultures from all corners of the world through the universal language of sport. As a sponsor and active participant, Air Tahiti not only supports the Hawaiki Nui Va’a but also contributes to the cultural exchange that makes this event truly unique.
Conclusion: Air Tahiti’s Dedication to Cultural and Sports Tourism
As the Hawaiki Nui Va’a unfolds in 2025, Air Tahiti continues to demonstrate its deep connection to Polynesian culture and its unwavering commitment to sports tourism. By facilitating the transportation of over 2,600 passengers, operating more than 40 additional flights, and actively participating in the race through Team Air Tahiti Va’a, the airline plays an essential role in making this prestigious event accessible to both local and international audiences. The race is not just about athletic competition but about preserving and promoting the traditions of Polynesia, and Air Tahiti’s contribution helps ensure the continued success of this cultural and sporting celebration.
[Image Credit: Pacific Tourism Organisation]
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