This year’s lagatoi (traditional motuan boat) has returned to shores of mainland Port Moresby.
As tradition, each year, during the Hiri Moale Festival, the Motuan version of the Hiri trade is re-enacted.
For this year, it was the Tatana villagers who built the lagatoi (large, multi-hulled sailing canoes) used in the Hiri.
In the past, the lagatoi served as the sole transport, to the Motu-Koitabu sea-farers, who braved rough seas and strong winds during the trade.
These men were husbands, fathers, brothers, sons and fiancés.
The trade saw the Motuans sail to the Gulf of Papua to exchange clay pots and valuable seashells for inland food such as sago.
The lagatoi returns with the crew, to a jubilant village welcome.
Tatana villagers yesterday, released the lagatoi, which sailed to Manu bada yesterday.
The modern day re-enacted saw the lagatoi returning today with both male and female dancers.
The crew was received, and joined in on the celebrations.
There are various singsing groups, choir groups which continue the festivity at the ring road today.
This afternoon will also see the final judging of Hiri Hanenamo quest contestants.