Vanuatu – Traditional Pacific Culture

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Vanuatu is an archipelago of 83 islands lying between New Caledonia and Fiji in the South Pacific. The islands called Vanuatu were home to Melanesians for over 2,500 years. There is evidence that Melanesian navigators from Papua New Guinea were the first to colonise Vanuatu. Then, in the 15th century, European explorers and missionaries began arriving and the islands changed forever. Many Vanuatu believe that wealth can be obtained through ceremonies. Dance is an important part of their culture; many villages have dancing grounds called Nasara. A significant traditional event is the Toka festival on Tanna Island, a symbol of alliance and friendship between different tribes.

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Traditional weaving as part of a small nambas kastom village tour on Malekula Island, Vanuatu

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Traditional food preparation as part of a small nambas kastom village tour on Malekula Island, Vanuatu

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Tesi Aurelie’s bungalows on Malakula island. Tesi is one of the many people who has received training and support from the AusAID funded TVET program

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Prawn farm, Vanuatu

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Port Vila vegetable market, Vanuatu

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Port Vila vegetable market, Vanuatu

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Port Vila vegetable market, Vanuatu

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NiVanuatu artisan replaces a thatched roof on the chiefs’ meeting hall. Vanuatu

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Security officer at Port Vila vegetable market, Vanuatu

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Sargent Ephraim Kalorib teaching at Vanuatu Police College. Vanuatu

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Paul Denny works at a copra production centre on Malekula Island, Vanuatu.

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Perry Louis a lab assistant at the Norsup Hospital, Malekula Island, Vanuatu

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Kindergarten students during a lunch break at Norsup Primary School, Malekula Island.

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Passengers board a plane after it stopped at the first of two stops on the island of Malakula

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Third grade students during class at Norsup Primary School. Malekula Island.

credit: DFAT photo library

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