Fenua Original, The label protecting authentic Polynesian craftsmanship

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The Islands of Tahiti: their landscapes, their warm-hearted people, their singular culture and their craft traditions. These traditions are precious - and too often copied. This is why they must be protected, and why local and international buyers need the assurance that the object they purchase is authentic, born of the mind and hands of a Polynesian artisan. The Fenua Original label provides that assurance, for buyers and creators alike.

Craftsmanship, a true essence of Polynesia

For many visitors, bringing home a piece of local craftsmanship is a way to extend the experience and keep a little of the spirit of the fenua close at hand.

Behind every carving, every piece of jewelry and every woven object lie precise gestures, often learned within the family, and a deep respect for natural materials. Markets, specialized shops and cultural events all offer opportunities to discover these one-of-a-kind creations. Artisans are usually delighted to explain their work, the materials they use and the story behind each object.

Fenua Original, a collective trademark

Fenua Original is a collective trademark registered with France's National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) by the Traditional Craftsmanship Department - Te Pū ‘ohipa rima‘ī. Filed at the end of 2022, the label was rolled out to artisans in November 2023, then introduced to the general public in March 2024. The label now makes it possible to identify authentic, 100% fenua products from traditional craftsmanship and to respond to improper practices. As a mark of quality and authenticity, it stands out among the countless creations presented at fairs and other points of sale, guiding customers toward a purchase that guarantees the artisan's approach and the origin of the creation.

The label and the artisans

Today, 134 artisans have been certified. Most are based in Tahiti and the Tuamotu-Gambier Islands, with some also from the Austral Islands. The Traditional Craftsmanship Department knows there is still considerable room to expand the label among all stakeholders in the sector. This is one of its major goals for the next five years. While some artisans have clearly understood the value of Fenua Original, others remain hesitant.

Extending the magic

The Traditional Craftsmanship Department chose the label's name so it would be easy for international visitors to pronounce and recognize, while retaining a Polynesian identity. The logo, created by Polynesian graphic designer Tano Tahiti, adds value to the product. Each labeled piece therefore allows buyers to extend the magic of their encounter with a unique object. A handcrafted souvenir is not merely decorative. It becomes a link to the journey, a tangible memory of landscapes, encounters and Polynesian hospitality. And when the trip is over, these objects continue to tell the story of Polynesia.