Titikaveka

Prize Winning Cook Is. Village

From Our Own Correspondent RAROTONGA, January 5.

THE yearly tour of inspection, or “Tutaka,” of native villages, took place during the month.

The following four officials comprise the committee of inspection: Resident Commis sioner, Chief Medical Officer, Registrar of Courts, and Director of Agriculture.

The officials are met at each village by a local committee of native women termed the “Au Vaine.” The “Au Vaine” movement was introduced in 1926 and has for its function co-operation with the authorities on the fol lowing specified lines: (a) Cleanliness of villages and plantations, (b) Proper tethering of horses, pigs and goats. (c) Planting of domestic and export crops, (d) General beautifying of village surround ings.

The cup, which goes to the village scoring the greatest number of points for sanitation, cropping, general appearance, etc., was won this year by Titikaveka. The villages of Aorangi and Ngatangila, it is understood, were given higher points than the winner under one or two headings, but the honour went to Titikaveka for the general, all-round standard attained by the “Au Vaine” at that village.

Titikaveka is a charming spot. Its long avenue of flamboyant trees is now a mass of scarlet blossom. Plots of flowers are to be seen here and there on the closely cropped grass of the unfenced allotments. The native huts and tropical bungalows set back from the roadside, nestling beneath shady trees and coconut palms, make a pleasing picture for the eye. The long beach of coral sand and the splendid bathing spots in the lagoon at Titikaveka, make it a favourite resort with the European section of the community here.