History
In 1990, a small group of at-risk youth were taught Tahitian dancing in a garage within the rural community of Whitmore Village located in Central O’ahu, Hawaii under the direction of Ra’atira (teacher) Pola Teriipaia, professional dancer and teacher of over 30 years. It was Pola’s goal and dream to share her love of the Tahitian culture and dance with these youth. In doing so, her students gained a tremendous amount of self-respect and an increased determination to succeed in their lives. These students grew to be national and international award winning competitive dancers, improved and excelled academically, contributed time and positive reinforcement back to the community, and performed professionally all over the world.

Manutahi has now grown to a dedicated and disciplined group of over 80 students and holds classes at a community center in Wahiawa. In addition, we have expanded our outreach to the community by also offering classes to over 20 students at the Makakilo Elementary School cafeteria in the Kapolei/Makakilo area. Our group performs at a variety of diverse community, charitable, and corporate events annually. Manutahi has successfully competed in over 35 national and international competitions, and have humbly walked away with numerous awards.

Origin of Manutahi
Manutahi, meaning “The First Bird”, was bestowed upon us by the Teriipaia family. Manutahi Teriipaia was from the tranquil and exquisite island of Tahaa in Tahiti. Manutahi was the leader of a renowned and award-winning dance and musical group in Tahiti, the lineage that we proudly carry on. The Manutahi family is committed to perpetuating the richness and beauty of the Polynesian culture through our Tahitian dance and music.