As part of the Cook Islands' 60th Anniversary of Self-Governance celebrations, Takurua - the taste of the season - reflects on our identity, heritage, and connection to our homeland through food. This annual celebration showcases the local ingredients that have shaped Cook Islands cuisine for generations, honouring both tradition and innovation. Each year, a different food takes center stage, highlighting its cultural significance, traditional uses, and modern adaptations. Takurua brings together our community and visitors to explore and appreciate the tastes of the land and sea, celebrating the food, practices, and traditions that connect us to our home.


Introducing the taste of the season...Kuru (Breadfruit)

This year’s event embraces the anniversary theme, “I know who I am, I have a homeland – Kua kite au i toku turanga, e Avaiki toku,” by showcasing a food crop that has long sustained our people – Kuru (breadfruit). Grown in family gardens, kuru has long been a key part of local cuisine, valued for its versatility and ability to feed many. Whether baked in an umu (underground earth oven), roasted over an open fire, boiled, or transformed into modern dishes, kuru remains a symbol of sustenance and tradition. Through this year’s Takurua events, we celebrate both the nostalgic tastes of kuru and the creative ways it continues to evolve in Cook Islands cooking today.


Takurua will feature three events that bring together our youth, community, businesses and visitors:

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Friday, 21 Feb – Secondary Schools Takurua - Ta’u Umu

Te Puna Korero – National Culture Centre Grounds | Friday, 21 February | 7:30am - 1:30pm

Takurua – Ta’u Umu will feature secondary students going head-to-head, preparing a traditional umu featuring kuru, while battling it out in cultural activities and traditional games. This event is facilitated by the Ministry of Cultural Development and will be hosted at Te Puna Korero grounds at the Ministry of Culture.

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Saturday, 22 Feb – Kuru Cook-Off

Punanga Nui Market | Saturday, 22 February | 9am - 11am

A cooking showcase at Punanga Nui Market, where home cooks compete for the title of “Best Tiopu Kuru (Breadfruit Stew) in the Cook Islands!”. Market goers will get to sample the dishes and vote for their favourite! Who will take home the $1,000 cash prize?

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Tuesday, 25 Feb – Mystery Taste Tour

Mystery Locations | Tuesday, 25 February | 5pm - 9:30pm

A ticketed food experience where guests will travel by bus to visit mystery locations, each serving a kuru-inspired taster. The evening will feature live entertainment, storytelling, and a Takurua feast. Limited to 90 guests. Tickets are $90 per ticket, email [email protected] to purchase.

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Share your Kuru Content with us

We’re collecting stories, memories, photos and recipes about kuru! Whether it’s a family recipe, a childhood memory, or an interesting fact, we want to hear it. Selected stories may be featured in our event content. You can also tag us in your social media posts using #Takurua.