Polynesian Cultural Center Introduces Polynesian Explorer Overnight Program
Students, Teachers and Parents Enjoy First-Hand Cultural Learning Experience Including Traditional Fire-Making, Star Navigation and Story Telling
Laie, HI – March 21, 2012 – The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) offers students, teachers and parents a unique opportunity to “do as the Polynesians do” with the introduction of its Polynesian Explorer Overnight Program, a cultural learning experience available to students in the 3rd – 6th grades. Keiki can spend a night of exploration and fun experiencing what daily life in Polynesia is like learning traditional cooking and fire-making methods, navigating a canoe by star-compass and ancient wayfinding techniques, and other interactive activities.
“At the Polynesian Cultural Center, we’re always looking for creative ways to provide our keiki with the opportunity to experience the fascinating cultures of the islands first-hand, which is why we created the Polynesian Explorer Overnight Program,” said Larie Manutai, PCC’s Hawaii Sales Manager. “This program also builds upon the Hawaiiana programs in elementary schools and brings it to life in an interactive environment. Keiki leave with lasting memories and a greater appreciation and understanding of Polynesia.”
From the moment they are greeted with a traditional Maori welcoming ceremony, keiki are immersed in the culture and knowledge of Polynesia both past and present. The journey begins in Tahiti where groups experience daily life in Polynesia including coconut bread making, the melody of a canoe song and fire making using just sticks. The adventure continues at the Marquesas Landing where participants learn about Polynesian migration and get hands-on experience learning about navigation and way-finding skills, before boarding a double-hulled canoe. The night ends with campfire storytelling in Hale Ohana before hitting the sack in the Maori Village.
Day Two begins with Maori exercises and military games in Aotearoa (New Zealand) followed by a breakfast in Hale Ohana. Keiki then get to share their experience in a reflection activity and have one final exit ceremony before saying a hui hou (until we meet again).
The Polynesian Explorer Overnight Program is open to school groups, grades 3-5, with a minimum of one adult for every five keiki, and is available once a week on Thursday (with some exceptions). Groups of up to 200 students and chaperones can be accommodated with a minimum of 80 participants. Schools may come individually or partner with other schools. Cost for the program is $45 per person to include snacks and breakfast. Participants can bring their own dinner or, for an additional fee, enjoy an ala carte meal. For more information visit PCCOvernight.com or contact PCC’s group sales office at (808) 293-3150.
Founded in 1963 as a non-profit organization, the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) has entertained more than 36 million visitors, while preserving and portraying the culture, arts and crafts of Polynesia to the rest of the world. In addition, the PCC has provided financial assistance to nearly 17,000 young people from more than 70 different countries while they attend Brigham Young University-Hawaii. As a non-profit organization, 100 percent of PCC’s revenue is used for daily operations and to support education.