Dukduks

Tumbuans start off Rabaul’s Independence celebrations

 At least 200 people gathered this morning to witness the spectacular kinavai, which consists of tumbuans dancing on boats out at sea while a group of men stand on the shores, beating drums and chanting.

The kinavai is a representation of the Tolai people travelling across seas to reach East New Britain.

Women and girls made sure they were a safe distance away from the dancing tumbuans when they landed on the beach.

According to the rich Tolai custom, it is taboo for females to stand near tumbuans or dukduks.