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Contributing her voice and measina [taonga] as part of the O le fogava’a e tasi – One family exhibition, in this track we hear from Lydia Teatao talk about te Itera. Te Itera is a distinguishing flower head wreath made from specific flowers and leaves grown in Kiribati. Te Itera involves a special art form of plaiting; not all I-Kiribati are adept to weave Te Itera. The philosophy of Te Itera is sacred as it holds the values of honour, peace, acceptance, friendship, celebration, mutual respect and blessings to the wearer. Culturally, special occasions will be started off by the presentation of Te Itera by local dancers, who would dance and then placed Te Itera on each guest or special person’s head. This traditional practice plays an integral role in the lives of the I-Kiribati until today and it is highly considered in te maneaba or formal/official functions. Presenting Te Itera signifies love, appreciation, gratefulness and gratitude to people and as a conflict resolution in some cases. Image: Lydia Tea