Aujourd’hui à Nouméa we visited the architecturally stunning Tjibaou Cultural Centre. We were immersed in the Polynesian culture, particularly in the history of the Kanak people, and their traditions and values. Our guide, Angel toured us through a representation of the huts specific to each of their regions’ culture. She spoke to us on the importance of modern issues that have been faced by the relatively new culture (within the last 6000-8000 years) including environmental degradation and pollution and gender equality.
The Kanak people have strong ties to their land and strongly follow virtues of life including wisdom, humour, family and unity. Although their leadership follows a male bloodline, females stand at equal ground to men in terms of decision making and power.
The centre itself, was designed and built by famous Italian architect, Renzo Piano. He structured the buildings based off the original circular and traditional designs of Kanak houses. The circular walls are suited to the climate of Nouvelle-Calédonie and their hurricane season and are designed to allow wind to pass over and around the house.
