Our 2025 Judges
Tumata Vairaaroa
Tumata is a professional ‘Ori Tahiti dancer and international instructor. She holds a Master’s degree in Management and serves as the president and director of Siva Afi Tahiti, the first international fire knife dance competition in French Polynesia.
A standout performer in the renowned cultural and professional group ‘O Tahiti E, Tumata danced with the company for 13 years and was awarded 3rd Best Female Dancer at Heiva i Tahiti, one of the most prestigious cultural competitions in Polynesia. She has been recognized as one of the top artists in her group and on the international stage.
With over 10 years of solo competition experience—particularly in the Ori Tahiti Nui competition—Tumata has consistently reached the podium, solidifying her status as a leading figure in ‘Ori Tahiti.
Today, she fully lives her passion. She is the founder of the clothing boutique AHU TAHITI, where she showcases her own brand, AHUTU. In addition, she works as a TV host, presenter, director, and producer in French Polynesia.
Tumata continues to share and celebrate Polynesian culture around the world, teaching ‘Ori Tahiti in France, throughout Europe, the United States, overseas territories, and beyond.
Tylon Buendia
Tylon Buendia is an aspiring dancer who’s ambition is to perpetuate the culture of his mã’ohi ancestry. Being of Mariteragi lineage, he carries a deep humility in honor of his families legacy. In a short time, Tylon accumulated several achievements stateside and internationally. Although the awards are satisfying, Ty recognizes dancing is a gift the ancestors
OUR JUDGES
Toanui Mahinui
I started dancing ‘Ori Tahiti at the age of 19 in 2009 at the “Conservatoire Artistique de la Polynésie Française”. But I really dance for the first time in 2007 at the Heiva I Tahiti with the pupu ‘Ori Toa Reva directed by Manouche LEHARTEL.
Why? My cousin Tuarii TRACQUI was at the Conservatoire and I’ve seen one of their performances for their annual Gala in To’ata in 2008. I just wanted to be with theme on the stage at this moment.
• 2007: dance with pupu ‘Ori Toa Reva at Heiva I Tahiti
• 2009-2012: Student at the Conservatoire de la Polynésie Française
• 2009-2010: dance with pupu ‘Ori Hitireva at Heiva I Tahiti
• 2011: dance with pupu ‘Ori Toakura at Heiva I Tahiti
• 2012: dance with pupu ‘Ori Hitireva at Heiva I Tahiti
• 2013-Today : Teacher at the Conservatoire de la Polynésie française
• 2014: 2nd Best male dancer at Heiva I Tahiti with pupu ‘Ori Toa Hiva
• 2015 : graduated at the Conservatoire de la Polynésie Française (Gold Medal)
• 2016: dance with pupu ‘Ori Hei Tahiti at Heiva I Tahiti
• 2018: 3rd Best male dancer and Ra’atira at Heiva I Tahiti with pupu ‘Ori Hei Tahiti
• 2018: 4th price at Hura Tapairu in Mehura categorie with my own pupu ‘Ori Toa Mataroa
• 2021: participation at the festival
• 2022: participation at the Hura Tapairu in categorie Mehura with my own pupu ‘Ori Toa Mataroa
• 2022: sing with pupu Reo Papara at Heiva I Tahiti
I dance in a lot of cultural events and modern events like “Pina’ina’i” by Moana’ura TEHIEURA, “Tamau” by the Conservatoire, “Aladin” by school dance Annie Fayn. Choreographer for the show “Tumu Ao”, “Ruahine”, “Freya” and “Oriya” by Tahiti Pole Art and Toa Mataroa.
Matani Kainuku
Leader of the renowned dance group NONAHERE, Matani is a champion with an impressive track record: 2nd place at Heiva i Tahiti 2005, and 1st place for 2006, 2007, and 2008!
As the Head Judge of Hura Tapairu and multiple Heiva i Tahiti events (2015, 2016, 2017, 2024, 2025), Matani brings decades of experience, talent, and passion to the stage.
Also a gifted musician, writer, and composer, he’s a true embodiment of the culture!