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Marae Auiti is an ancient ceremonial site located on Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia.

Visual Characteristics

The site features a large, rectangular stone platform (about 20 meters by 10 meters) constructed from dark volcanic rock. Several upright stone slabs, known as tiki, are positioned around the perimeter and within the platform. The largest tiki stands approximately 2.5 meters tall. The surrounding vegetation is dense tropical forest, primarily composed of breadfruit trees and ferns.

Location & Access Logistics

Marae Auiti is situated inland from the village of Taiohae on Nuku Hiva. Access is via the main road (Route Principale) heading west from Taiohae for approximately 5 kilometers. A marked, unpaved track branches off to the right, leading to a small parking area. From the parking area, a 10-minute walk along a cleared path leads to the marae. No public transport directly serves the site.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Marae Auiti is believed to date back to the 13th century. It served as a significant religious and social gathering place for the indigenous Marquesan people. The construction involved quarrying and transporting local volcanic stone. The site's ecological context is a tropical rainforest environment characteristic of the Marquesas Islands.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the preserved stone structures and tiki. Photography of the archaeological features is permitted. Walking the perimeter of the marae provides a comprehensive view of the layout.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There are no permanent facilities at Marae Auiti. Restrooms, shade, and food vendors are not available at the site. Cell phone signal is intermittent to non-existent.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is mid-morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM) to avoid harsh overhead sunlight. The dry season, from May to October, offers more favorable weather conditions with less rainfall.

Facts & Legends

Local tradition suggests that Marae Auiti was a place where important tribal decisions were made and significant ceremonies, including those related to warfare and fertility, were performed. One legend speaks of a powerful tiki at the site that could communicate with the spirits of ancestors.

Nearby Landmarks

• Taiohae Bay (2.5km East)
• Hatiheu Bay (8km North)
• Anaho Bay (12km North)
• Tohua Koueva (3km East)