Tour· Fatu Hiva· French Polynesia: Tuamotus, Marquesas, Gambier & Australs
Fatu Hiva Tapa Makers
10° 30.8′ S · 138° 41.0′ W · approximate
Fatu Hiva is the only island in French Polynesia where tapa, cloth beaten from mulberry, breadfruit and banyan bark and painted with Marquesan designs, is still made. You can watch it being made in Omoa and buy straight from the women who make it.
Practical
Approximate position: Omoa village; makers work at home, so listen for the beating or ask. In July 2023 a group visited Solange's house in Omoa for tapa of all sizes in banyan, mulberry and breadfruit bark. In 2003 a woman beating bark sold pieces from 5,000 XPF (verify locally). Magasin Moota in Hanavave also sells tapa (2019). Tapa are also sold with pareos and monoi when ships call (PG Cruises). Bring XPF; some makers accept barter.
Best for
Buying tapa from its maker
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