The Polynesian flag is composed of two colors and a small logo. The Polynesian flag has two red stripes surrounding a white rectangle.

The meaning of the Polynesian flag

This two-colored flag is composed of three bands. The logo in its center is the emblem of Polynesia. This banner was officially adopted on December 4, 1985.

1. The description of the Polynesian emblem in the center of the flag

the pirogue and its sail

The emblem in the center of the flag is a pirogue. A boat that is essential for the Polynesians. Whether it is to move from island to island or to go fishing. As a reminder, the pirogue is an instrument and an essential means of transportation for the Polynesians, and this since the dawn of time. Although today’s boats are motorized outboards, the pirogue remains an iconic image in the Polynesian imagination.

The tikis

In the center of the emblem and just above the pirogue are five tikis. These small statues represent the five archipelagos that make up French Polynesia.

For your information, tikis are statuettes that represent gods that are supposed to ward off evil spirits and protect the inhabitants.

The sun, a component of the Polynesian emblem

Behind the five tikis and the pirogue, are the rays of the sun. An element that represents life and hope.

The Sea

The lower part of the emblem is composed of waves. We see the blue of the sea represented by many small blue domes that represent the swell of the Pacific Ocean. The white waters of the largest ocean on the planet are supposed to symbolize the abundance of the ocean.

2. The meaning of the colors of the Polynesian flag

the two red stripes

The two red stripes of the Polynesian flag refer to the royal family. This is how the “maro ura” is symbolized, a belt of red feathers that only members of the royal family were allowed to wear.

White

This color symbolizes freedom and occupies a little less than half of the Polynesian flag.