Chants, stories, drumming and dance were central to Rakahangan/Manihikian culture.
 An early 20th century visitor claimed that dancing was the peoples'  "chief reason for existing," and described them as the most accomplished singers and dancers "in the whole South Pacific".

Inlay pearl shell inlays decorated traditional double canoes.
The Cook Islands Christian Church has many examples of this fine inlay work that was used to decorate furniture.
Chants, stories, drumming and dance were central to Rakahangan/Manihikian culture.  An early 20th century visitor claimed that dancing was the peoples'  "chief reason for existing," and described them as the most accomplished singers and dancers "in the whole South Pacific".
Inlay pearl shell inlays decorated traditional double canoes. The Cook Islands Christian Church has many examples of this fine inlay work that was used to decorate furniture.
Rakahanga