We started off our day waking up in the loving home of Ben and Mere. After a quick breakfast we rehearsed our presentation for the students. This helped us to feel ready for our first presentation at Waibogi tomorrow.
Next we departed for Navua. Once there we stocked up on groceries and a traditional gift “Sevu Sevu” at the markets before heading 3 hours upstream to Wainikai on a wild, wet canoe ride. It was great fun and we got very wet with the rain and the rapids. Upon arrival at Wainikai, we walked up the very steep stairs to Tuks’ house where he took us through the scenic jungle. It was stunning, with long stalks of bamboo and ropes of vine to swing on. A real jungle!!!
Back at Tuks’ house we practised our singing before (and while) meeting the chief as part of a sevu sevu ceremony. This is a traditional Fijian ceremony for accepting visitors into the village. In this ceremony we offered the chief kava roots that we had bought in the markets and received the kava drink. This drink symbolises the chief’s protection of us for our stay in the village. We are very priviledged to have taken part in this ceremony and learnt a bit more about Fijian culture.
