Review: Rere Atu Ki Poronihia - Flight to Polynesia

Tangaroa Paul’s newly released book Rere Atu Ki Poronihia - Flight to Polynesia follows the story of Rangi and his school Kapa Haka group travelling to Hawai’i to perform on stage. Along the way, Rangi shares stories of taonga (treasures) with his new Pasifika friends while also pondering his personal sense of belonging within a cultural context.

Paul, who is of Muriwhenua descent, is a lecturer for Te Ara Poutama (the Faculty of Māori and Indigenous Studies at Auckland University of Technology) teaching te reo Māori, media and gender studies. Paul draws from their own experience moving from performing in the male kapa haka line to performing with wāhine, to help shape a book that explores identity in a safe and thoughtful way.

Paul partners with Luca Tu’avao Walton, Auckland based Tongan illustrator to bring to life the vibrancy of the various Pacific nations. Each character has been crafted with a distinct sense of personality and the use of colour and pattern effectively distinguishes the different nations, making the journey to Hawai’i feel truly Oceanic.

While the narrative may focus on the exchange of physical taonga between the new friends, it becomes clear to the reader that the true taonga is in the characters’ shared journey toward belonging. The book is a vessel for representation, allowing tamariki to see their identities reflected through positive relationships and affirmed as something worthy of celebration.

Rere Atu Ki Poronihia - Flight to Polynesia is presented in both te reo Māori and English, making the book a practical and accessible tool for building linguistic bridges in the classroom and family homes alike.

Ultimately, Rere Atu Ki Poronihia - Flight to Polynesia is more than a sequel. It is a celebration of Pasifika identity and solidarity. It is able to uplift every culture it touches, showcasing a collective journey of belonging. Together, Paul and Walton have created a story that offers strength and affirmation to every reader.

South Auckland author and educator Elsie Uini writes short stories through a Pacific lens, crafting narratives that bridge cultures with the hope of inspiring her students and readers.